Study Explores Self-Moxibustion as Supportive Care for Chemotherapy Patients
A recent study conducted by researchers from the East and North Hertfordshire National Health Service Trust, including Mount Vernon Cancer Center in the UK, has explored the feasibility of self-administered moxibustion as a supportive care method for chemotherapy patients. Moxibustion, a traditional heat-based therapy applied to acupuncture points, was tested on 25 patients with breast, colorectal, or gynecological cancers. These patients were undergoing chemotherapy regimens where granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) was not routinely indicated. Participants were instructed to apply indirect smokeless moxibustion to the Zusanli (ST36) point daily, with the study recording a 46.5% adherence rate. The study found that while no serious adverse events occurred, some participants experienced mild discomfort. The research suggests that moxibustion could be a safe and practical integrative option for patients seeking active roles in their supportive care during chemotherapy. 
