Vascular cognitive impairment is characterized by symptoms ranging from forgetfulness to more serious problems with attention, memory, language and problem-solving. Heart disease and stroke are two of the major risk factors, as both involve compromised blood supply to the brain.
In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Acupuncture and Moxibustion (Xu GC, et al., 2019), researchers recruited 94 patients with VCI and randomized them into two groups for comparison. One group received donepezil hydrochloride, while the other group received acupuncture. Both groups also received general therapy according to China 2014 Guidelines for Secondary Prevention and Treatment of Ischemic Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack, including aspirin tablets and atorvastatin calcium daily.
The primary acupoints that were used in treating the acupuncture group included GV26 (Shuigou), PC6 (Neiguan), SP6 (Sanyinjiao), EX-HN1 (Sishencong), GB39 (Xuanzhong) and KI3 (Taixi) and involved a specific protocol, Xing Nao Kai Qiao ("Waking the Brain and Opening the Orifices"). Prior to treatment, and four and eight weeks following treatment, researchers evaluated patient response using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) Scale; the Ability of Daily Living Scale; serum levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and visinin-like protein 1 (VILIP-1; and mRNA expression of IGF-1 and VILIP-1.
Following treatment, both patient groups showed improvements in scores at four and eight weeks, although significantly greater improvements were noted in the acupuncture group as compared to the medication group.
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The Oregon College of Oriental Medicine (OCOM) has announced it is closing after 41 years. Pending accreditor approval, OCOM will cease offering classes after September (fourth-year OCOM students graduate Aug. 26). All current / incoming OCOM students have the option of continuing their education at the National University of Natural Medicine or Five Branches University, or transferring to another school altogether.
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The end of cancer treatment does not necessarily signal a return to good health. Cancer survivors report poorer health and well-being than people who have not had cancer; many suffer chronic consequences of cancer and its treatments. Some may also develop new symptoms many years after treatment has ended.
