Trial to explore acupuncture for weight loss in PCOS

The NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome has awarded a project grant of over $10,000 to Dr Carolyn Ee, Jacka Foundation senior research fellow at NICM.

The grant will fund a randomised controlled feasibility study exploring the role of acupuncture as an adjunct to lifestyle interventions for weight loss in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

“The project is directly informed by qualitative research we conducted earlier in the year indicating women with PCOS struggle with their weight, and would welcome non-pharmacological therapies such as acupuncture if shown to be effective,” says Dr Ee.

“Weight loss improves many of the features of PCOS and can reduce the burden of chronic disease from diabetes and heart disease.”

Leading PCOS researchers Professor Helena Teede(opens in a new window) and Associate Professor Lisa Moran (opens in a new window) from Monash University and Dr Michael Costello (opens in a new window) from UNSW Sydney will collaborate with Dr Ee on the project.

The research cohort has already completed a systematic review, and a qualitative study on acupuncture for weight loss in PCOS, with feasibility testing now in sight for a clinical trial.

“If this current project shows our method for a clinical trial is feasible, we will seek further competitive funding for a fully powered randomised controlled trial,” Dr Ee says.

Professor Caroline Smith from NICM will also play an in important role in the trial as co-investigator on the research project.