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- Feasibility and Real-World Applicability of Multimodal Physiological and Lifestyle Monitoring in Korean Medicine Primary Care Settings: A Protocol for a Prospective Multicenter Observational Study
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Jieun Chu, Haeun Cho, Reewon Kim, Seungkyu Kim, Jihong Oh, Joohyun Lee, Soomin Song, Gaeun Kim, Gyeongchan Kim, Hyein Yim, Hyein Jeong, Kyeonghan Kim, Jungtae Leem, Seunghyun Song, Hongmin Chu
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Perspect Integr Med. 2026;5(2):161-168. Published online June 19, 2026
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2026.06.010
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Graphical Abstract
Abstract
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- Background
Accurate prediction of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk requires integrating multiple biological signals and lifestyle factors. In South Korea, CVD is a leading cause of mortality. While multi-signal observational research is warranted, a targeted preliminary study is essential before large-scale trials. Given well-established sex differences in glycemic variability and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) profiles, initializing data collection within a female cohort is crucial to capture distinct metabolic nuances.
Methods
This protocol for a pilot prospective multicenter observational study aims to validate a methodology evaluating multidimensional cardiometabolic profiles within primary Korean medicine (KM) settings. One hundred female participants (aged 20-59) will be recruited from 4 KM clinics. Cardiovascular markers (blood pressure, pulse wave velocity, heart rate variability) will be acquired using the KOROT P3 Accurate device. Continuous glucose changes will be monitored using the CareSens Air CGM system, while biochemical markers (lipid profiles, HbA1c) will be assessed via a portable blood analyzer. Participants will log food intake by photographing meals using a smartphone application. Statistical analysis will evaluate glucose dynamics, variability indices, and their correlations with cardiovascular autonomic function.
Conclusion
This protocol describes a study in females to evaluate the feasibility and real-world applicability of a clinical research model involving KM-based lifestyle therapy or dietary interventions. By combining conventional biochemical markers with continuous physiological monitoring in naturalistic settings, this research represents a step towards “bio-observability” and may enable more precise risk management in women.
Review Article
- The Safety and Effectiveness of Electroacupuncture for Labor Pain Relief: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
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Hyein Jeong, Jiwon Heo, Hyunsuk Park, Kyeong Han Kim
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Perspect Integr Med. 2025;4(1):6-15. Published online February 21, 2025
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2025.02.002
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Abstract
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Supplementary Material
- Background
Labor pain is among the most intense forms of pain, significantly impacting physical and psychological well-being. Although epidural anesthesia is effective, it has side effects and limited accessibility. Electroacupuncture (EA) offers a low-risk alternative. This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the safety and effectiveness of EA in relieving labor pain and duration.
Methods
Randomized controlled trials comparing EA with standard treatments, including epidural anesthesia, were identified through database searches up to August 2024. The primary outcome was pain reduction (assessed using the visual analog scale), and the secondary outcomes were labor duration (1st and 2nd stages), Apgar scores, and adverse effects.
Results
In the analysis there were 10 randomized controlled trials (involving 1,498 women in labor) included in this review. EA statistically significantly improved both the level of pain and reduced labor duration compared with those women who received standard treatments (p < 0.001). Apgar scores were assessed in 3 studies and determined that the physical condition of the delivered babies was not statistically significantly different between EA and standard treatment for labor pain. Study protocol indicated the recording of adverse effects in one of the ten studies. Adverse events in that study recorded mild localized discomfort (1.89%, n = 1).
Conclusion
EA reduced labor pain and duration, and demonstrated its potential as an alternative to the conventional approaches for managing labor pain. The limited data suggest EA is likely safe, but further research is needed to confirm its safety profile.
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