Spotlight on Clinical Trials
The clinical trials below are among the many NCCAM-sponsored trials that were recruiting, or planning to start recruitment soon, at press time. To see others, go to nccam.nih.gov/clinicaltrials/alltrials.htm.
Polarity Therapy or Massage Therapy in Cancer Patients
© Bob Stockfield
Cancer-related fatigue is a frequent side effect of cancer. This randomized clinical trial is comparing two hands-on therapies--polarity therapy and massage therapy--to see if they reduce fatigue and improve quality of life and sleep in patients with breast cancer who are undergoing radiation therapy.
Principal investigator: Karen Mustian, Ph.D., University of Rochester
Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Adolescents With Major Depression
Major depression (a severe depressive disorder) in adolescents is a public health concern because of the risk of functional impairment and suicide. Conventional treatment with antidepressant medications has serious side effects in adolescents; other effective treatments are needed. Omega-3 fatty acids are substances found in the oils of some fish and vegetables and also manufactured in the form of dietary supplements (often as fish oil). This randomized, placebo-controlled study is investigating whether supplementation with omega-3s is an effective CAM treatment for major depression in young people 12 to 18 years old.
Principal investigator: Vilma Gabbay, M.D., New York University School of Medicine
Tai Chi in Patients With Congestive Heart Failure
Tai chi (also known by some other names, such as taijiquan) is a mind-body practice that originated in China as a martial art. It involves slow and gentle physical movement, deep breathing, and meditation, and it can be practiced for health purposes. This randomized study is examining tai chi for its potential as a complementary treatment for congestive heart failure (CHF; a condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to the rest of the body). The researchers are studying tai chi's effects on physical symptoms, psychological symptoms, and quality of life in CHF patients who are age 50 or older. Tai chi is being compared with walking exercise and health education.
Principal investigator: Laura Redwine, Ph.D., Veterans Medical Research Foundation, San Diego, California
