Acupuncture for Cancer Patients with Multiple Long-Term Conditions: A Scoping Review Protocol

Introduction

Half of all cancer patients live with MLTC, which is associated with increased disability, adverse drug events and poorer quality of life. There is a call for research that addresses the complexities introduced by MLTC, alongside a requirement for non-pharmacological person-centred approaches focusing on quality of life. Current acupuncture research in cancer care does not address the additional burden of managing MLTC. Inclusion criteria: This review will include cancer patients of all ages, at any stage of their cancer treatment, with at least one other long-term condition, receiving any style of acupuncture, reporting outcomes on either quality of life or symptom management, and in any healthcare setting or country.

Methods