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Updated: Aug 7, 2026
05:56
Acupoint Application Combined with Acupressure as an Adjunctive Therapy for Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting
Published on: June 21, 2024
After going through chemotherapy I can't see another needle
Anna Clare Cox1, Lesley J Fallowfield
1Cancer Research UK Psychosocial Oncology Group, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Falmer, East Sussex BN1 9QG, UK.
Summary
Needle anxiety affects 37.5% of women with breast cancer, often stemming from chemotherapy. Addressing this anxiety is crucial for patient care and future medical adherence.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Psychology
- Patient Care
Background:
- Needle anxiety negatively impacts patient quality of life and medical care adherence.
- A significant proportion of breast cancer patients experience anxiety related to injections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of needle anxiety in women with breast cancer.
- To identify factors associated with needle anxiety in this patient population.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted among 208 women diagnosed with breast cancer.
- Statistical analyses were performed to compare patients with and without needle anxiety based on demographic and clinical factors.
Main Results:
- 37.5% (78/208) of patients reported needle anxiety.
- Needle anxiety was associated with younger age, lower BMI, prior chemotherapy exposure, lower internal health locus of control, and higher state and trait anxiety.
- Chemotherapy experience was frequently cited as the cause of needle anxiety, linked to physical and environmental factors.
Conclusions:
- Chemotherapy-induced needle anxiety is a significant issue for breast cancer patients.
- Psychosocial support, including interventions for needle anxiety, is essential throughout cancer care.
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