The Effects of Acupressure on Quality of Life and Dyspnea in Lung Cancer: A Randomized, Controlled Trial

Context: Dyspnea is the most common symptom of lung cancer. Acupressure is an important application in the management of dyspnea for lung cancer patients. High-powered, well-planned work is needed on the topic.

Objectives: The study was conducted to determine the effects of acupressure on quality of life and dyspnea level for individuals with lung cancer.

Design: The study was a randomized, controlled, single-blinded trial.

Setting: The study took place in the Oncology Day Treatment Unit of a university hospital in Turkey.

Participants: Participants were patients in the unit who were receiving chemotherapy and had experienced dyspnea.

Intervention: Patients were divided into 2 groups: (1) an intervention group receiving acupressure, and (2) a control group receiving standard care. The P6-Lu1-Lu10 acupuncture points in the hand, forearm, and chest were used, with acupressure being applied 2 times per day for 4 wk, for a total of 56 sessions.

Outcome Measures: Data were collected at baseline and postintervention. Sociodemographic and disease-related data were collected using the Patient Identification Form. Quantitative data were collected with the Modified Borg Dyspnea Scale (Borg scale) and the St George's Respiratory Questionnaire and through measurements of participants' heart rates, respiratory rates, oxygen saturation, and walking distance before and after the 6-mile walk test. Qualitative data were collected using the semistructured "Patients' Views Form on Acupressure Experience."

Results: The 4-wk acupressure intervention demonstrated a significant reduction in the participants' levels of dyspnea, and at the same time, significant increases in their quality of life. The quantitative findings of this study were supported with qualitative findings.

Conclusions: Acupressure can be a helpful adjunct treatment that enhances the quality of life and reduces dyspnea in individuals with lung cancer. It is an easily applicable method without serious side effects.