Insomnia is a common and debilitating disorder experienced by cancer survivors. Treatment for sleep difficulties in cancer patients is typically pharmacological, but sedative medications can have substantial adverse effects. As such, having effective nonpharmacological interventions to treat insomnia fulfills a therapeutic need. Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is a form of CBT specifically designed to treat insomnia and is highly effective among cancer survivors; however, it is still not widely accessible to patients, and poor adherence can be an issue. Acupuncture use has grown substantially in cancer centers in the United States. Acupuncture has growing evidence of efficacy for insomnia; however, whether acupuncture or CBT-I is more effective for treating insomnia in cancer survivors is unknown.
