IMPA Assist. Prof. Dr. Eyal Ben-Arie Publishes New Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine in Burn Care

2026-11-10
Research Highlights

The International Master Program in Acupuncture, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, is pleased to highlight a recent research publication by Dr. Eyal Ben-Arie, a faculty member of the program, in the internationally recognized journal Burns.

The study, entitled "Chinese Herbal Medicine and Acupuncture Use After Acute Skin Burn and Its Association with Mental Health-Related Symptoms and Mortality: A Nationwide Retrospective Matched Cohort Study in Taiwan", investigates the use of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), including Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture, among patients with acute skin burns.

Using data from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database spanning 2001 to 2020, the research team conducted a nationwide retrospective matched cohort study involving 8,784 patients. The findings revealed that patients receiving TCM treatment were associated with a significantly lower risk of all-cause mortality compared with those who did not receive TCM. However, the TCM group also showed higher risks of anxiety and depression symptoms following burn injuries. Notably, patients who received 7–12 acupuncture sessions did not demonstrate elevated risks of these psychological outcomes.

This study provides valuable real-world evidence on the potential role of traditional Chinese medicine in post-burn care while highlighting the importance of considering both physical and psychological health outcomes. It also underscores the need for further research to better understand the relationship between TCM interventions, recovery, and long-term patient well-being.

Dr. Ben-Arie's publication reflects IMPA's commitment to advancing evidence-based acupuncture research and integrating traditional medical knowledge with contemporary scientific approaches. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and clinical research, the program continues to contribute to the international development of acupuncture and integrative medicine.

Publication Information

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