Many cancer patients have trouble sleeping. Mindfulness and acupressure can help relieve these symptoms. The "ICanSelfCare" clinical trial is investigating whether these techniques are also effective when learned independently through an online course.
The ICanSelfCare online course offers detailed step-by-step instructions and background information in an innovative format, and also helps participants incorporate these practices into their daily lives over the long term. People affected by the issue and experts were involved in the development of the online course.
Significant impairment of quality of life
Cancer patients often suffer from sleep problems, which can be exacerbated by the disease itself as well as by the treatments. Mental stress also often contributes to difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. In addition, pain, fatigue, or other physical symptoms can significantly impair sleep, well-being, and the ability to recover.
Do acupressure or mindfulness help?
Acupressure is a technique in which specific points are stimulated by using the fingers in a circular motion. Mindfulness is a special form of attention that is cultivated through specific exercises. It helps you focus on the present moment, increase body awareness, and reduce stress and sleep problems. Scientific studies show that both methods can help alleviate sleep problems. Both treatments are suitable for people with cancer and are already recommended in clinical guidelines.
Low-Threshold Online Study Participation
People who currently have or have had cancer in the past 5 years and are experiencing sleep problems can sign up for the study on their own at www.icanselfcare.ch.
The 12-week study randomly assigns participants to three groups: Two groups are randomly assigned to either the acupressure or mindfulness course and begin immediately, while the third group starts after six weeks and can choose between the two courses. The online course consists of six modules spread over six weeks. Multimedia content and regular email reminders help participants use the methods on a regular basis. The time required each day to work through the modules and complete the exercises is approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
The ICanSelfCare study offers an opportunity to actively contribute to improving your own well-being while also supporting cancer research. No special software is required to participate; you can do so using any web browser. Participation in the study is free of charge.
The ICanSelfCare study is supported by Cancer Research Switzerland.
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