Joyce Anastasi

Faculty

Joyce Anastasi headshot

Joyce K Anastasi

PhD DrNP FAAN

Independence Foundation Professor of Nursing
Founding Director, Special Studies in Symptom Management

1 212 992 7044

380 Second Avenue
New York, NY 10010
United States

Joyce K. Anastasi, PhD, DrNP, FAAN, is the Independence Foundation Professor of Nursing and founding director of the Special Studies in Symptom Management Program at NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing. She is one of the country's leading clinical scientists in the area of symptom management. Over the course of her career, she has been awarded numerous NIH Awards.  Her current R01 is a randomized controlled clinical trial for chronic distal sensory peripheral neuropathy in persons living with HIV. 

Prof. Anastasi authored and developed the Herbs, Nutraceuticals and Dietary Supplements© graduate program funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration. She has published extensively in the area of symptom management using non-invasive interventions and has received numerous awards for her contributions and expertise in acupuncture and symptom management research.

Before joining the faculty at NYU, Anastasi was the Helen F. Pettit Endowed Professor at Columbia University and director of its Integrative Therapies in Primary Care Program and Center for AIDS Research. She received the Columbia University Presidential Teaching Award in 2007. Anastasi served on the advisory board for the Institute of Medicine’s report on "The Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine by the American Public."  

DrNP in Nursing, Columbia University School of Nursing
Oriental Medicine/ Acupuncture, New York College for Wholistic Health, Education & Research
PhD in Nursing, Adelphi University
MA in Nursing, New York University
BSN in Nursing, Wagner College

Non-communicable disease
Infectious disease
Women's health
Primary care
Global
Adult Health
Palliative care
Complementary/integrative health

AIDS Treatment Data Network: Former Board of Directors
American Academy of Nursing: Fellow
American Academy of Nurse Practitioners
American Holistic Nurses Association
American Nurses Association
American Society for Parenteral & Enteral Nutrition
American Society for Reproductive Medicine
Association of Nurses in AIDS Care
Association for Reproductive Health Practitioners
Eastern Nursing Research Society
National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine: Diplomat
New York State Nurses Association
New York State Acupuncture Association
Oncology Nursing Society
RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association
Sigma Theta Tau
Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates

Distinguished Alumni Award in Research, Columbia University (2015)
Dedicated Service and Appreciation Certificate for Serving as a NIH Study Section Reviewer (2014)
Distinguished Alumni Fellow Award, Wagner College (2014)
Research Article of the Year Award, Association of Nurses in AIDS Care, 26th Annual Meeting (2013)
Distinguished Researcher Award, Eastern Nursing Research Society (2011)
Columbia University Presidential Teaching Award (2007)
Distinguished Researcher Award, Foundation of the New York State Nurses Association (2003)
The Traditional Chinese Medicine World Foundation, Building Bridges of Integration for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Award for research titled, “Acupuncture for Chronic Nausea in HIV.” (2003)
Researcher Recognition Award, Association of Nurses in AIDS Care (2002)
Sixth Annual Presidential Columbia University Teaching Award – Finalist (2001)
President’s Distinguished Alumnus Award, for Distinguished Service in HIV/AIDS Research and Integrating the Principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine with Biomedical Treatment Approaches, New York College of Wholistic Education and Research (2000)
Outstanding Clinical Article of the Year Award, Association of Nurses in AIDS Care, National Meeting (1999)
Diplomate of Acupuncture, National Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (1998)
Excellence in Acupuncture Award, New York College of Wholistic Health Education and Research (1997)
Fellow, American Academy of Nursing (1997)

Recruitment and retention of clinical trial participants : understanding motivations of patients with chronic pain and other populations

Anastasi, J. K., Capili, B., Norton, M., McMahon, D. J., & Marder, K. (2023). (Vols. 4). 10.3389/fpain.2023.1330937
Abstract
Abstract
This paper aims to present and discuss the issues, challenges, and strategies related to recruitment and retention in clinical trials involving participants with chronic pain. The randomized controlled clinical trial (RCT) is widely regarded as the gold standard for evaluating clinical interventions. However, it is crucial to acknowledge and address the challenges associated with recruiting and retaining participants. To prioritize the experience of the study population, targeted outreach strategies and a patient-centric approach are necessary. Researchers should consider incorporating recruitment and retention strategies during the study design phase. Implementing multi-pronged recruitment methods, leveraging relationships with community providers, and involving representatives of the patient population are helpful approaches. Effective communication and maintaining a professional environment are vital for optimizing engagement and supporting the successful execution of clinical trials involving participants with chronic pain.

Exploring the Evidence : Symptom Burden in Chronic Kidney Disease

Clark-Cutaia, M. N., Rivera, E., Iroegbu, C., Arneson, G., Deng, R., & Anastasi, J. K. (2022). (Vols. 49, Issues 3, pp. 227-255).
Abstract
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is more prevalent in individuals with obesity, diabetes mellitus, or hypertension. Individuals with CKD are prone to kidney failure, with symptom experiences that rival those of patients with cancer. We explored symptom burden in individuals with CKD via a systematic review of 30 quantitative and qualitative articles. The most common CKD symptoms were fatigue, weakness, pain, sleep disturbances and itchy skin. Instruments used to assess symptoms were the Kidney Disease Quality of Life (KDQOL)-36, the Palliative Outcome Symptom-Scale renal (POS-r)-13, and the Dialysis Symptom Index (DSI)-10. The included qualitative studies expand and expound on the quantitative data presented. This article describes the prevalence of symptom burden in individuals with CKD in relation to psychosocial and demographic factors and discuss the importance of symptom management.

Moxibustion for the Treatment of Distal Peripheral Neuropathy in Diabetes Mellitus : A Case Report

Anastasi, J. K., Hackett, L., Capili, B., & Dawes, N. C. (2022). (Issues 129, pp. 30-36).
Abstract
Abstract
Distal sensory peripheral neuropathy (DSPN) in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a painful chronic condition that affects one’s quality of life. People with DSPN experience pain, numbness, tingling, sensory loss, absent or reduced reflexes, and muscle weakness. Distal sensory peripheral neuropathy in T2DM is typically managed with tricyclic antidepressants, anticonvulsants and opiates. However, side effects can occur with pharmaceuticals, therefore a non-invasive symptom management approach such as moxibustion is worthy of consideration. Unfortunately, moxibustion is often overlooked and not considered a viable method for managing symptoms associated with DSPN. This case report illustrates the success of six moxibustion treatments conducted twice weekly for three weeks. The treatments reduced pain related to DSPN and improved indices of neurosensory testing.

Cohort Studies

Capili, B., & Anastasi, J. K. (2021). (Vols. 121, Issues 12, pp. 45-48). 10.1097/01.NAJ.0000803196.49507.08
Abstract
Abstract
Editor's note: This is the seventh article in a series on clinical research by nurses. The series is designed to give nurses the knowledge and skills they need to participate in research, step by step. Each column will present the concepts that underpin evidence-based practice - from research design to data interpretation. The articles will be accompanied by a podcast offering more insight and context from the authors. To see all the articles in the series, go to http://links.lww.com/AJN/A204.

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy : Person-centered care

Anastasi, J. K., & Klug, C. (2021). (Vols. 51, Issues 4, pp. 34-40). 10.1097/01.NURSE.0000736904.62783.68
Abstract
Abstract
ABSTRACT: Patients with diabetes mellitus may experience painful and nonpainful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). This article offers an overview of DPN and the clinical assessment and management of patients with DPN, as well as the nurse's role in supporting these patients.

Assessment and Management of HIV Distal Sensory Peripheral Neuropathy : Understanding the Symptoms

Anastasi, J. K., & Pakhomova, A. M. (2020). (Vols. 16, Issues 4, pp. 276-280). 10.1016/j.nurpra.2019.12.019
Abstract
Abstract
Distal sensory peripheral neuropathy (HIV-DSP) affects upwards of 50% of people living with HIV. Causing often debilitating symptoms of tingling, numbness and burning, HIV-DSP can result in disability, unemployment and low quality of life. Comorbidities further complicate nursing care, heightening risk of polypharmacy and symptom exacerbation. Therefore, a neurological sensory assessment, combined with the patient's self-report of symptoms, can help nurse practitioners visualize, quantify and understand symptoms. Common pharmacological interventions include antiepileptics, antidepressants, analgesics and medical marijuana. The complexity of care for individuals with HIV-DSP merits a comprehensive approach. Implications for practice include interdisciplinary management with neurologists, podiatrists, mental health providers, and nurse-led counseling inclusive of patient safety teaching.

Development of Acupuncture and Moxibustion Protocol in a Clinical Trial for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Anastasi, J. K., Capili, B., & Chang, M. (2017). (Vols. 10, Issue 1, pp. 62-66). 10.1016/j.jams.2016.12.006
Abstract
Abstract
Traditional Chinese medicine encompasses many different practices, most notably acupuncture and moxibustion. Traditionally, these modalities are used in combination to augment treatment but seldom are they tested together in clinical studies. Numerous acupuncture studies have been conducted in Asia, Europe, and the United States but there have been few randomized controlled trials utilizing moxibustion outside of East Asia. Limited studies have described the use of a moxibustion control or placebo procedure. The methods for developing an acupuncture and moxibustion protocol used in a randomized controlled trial for irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea predominant in adults are described here. Our approach conformed to the scientific rigor for a clinical trial and was consistent to the foundations of traditional Chinese medicine.

Addressing the Role of Food in Irritable Bowel Syndrome Symptom Management

Capili, B., Anastasi, J. K., & Chang, M. (2016). (Vols. 12, Issues 5, pp. 324-329). 10.1016/j.nurpra.2015.12.007
Abstract
Abstract
Patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) have often associated the worsening of symptoms with specific foods. Research is starting to catch up with what patients have reported about food interaction and their symptoms, and the role of diet is being increasingly recognized for the management of IBS. Clinical guidance for nurse practitioners can be challenging because of limited data and guideline consensus along with the nuances of symptoms associated with IBS subtypes. This article summarizes some of the key themes and dietary recommendations by various gastrointestinal organizations, public health agencies, and dietary associations. By addressing the relevance of diet for symptom alleviation, nurse practitioners are able to better support patients and collaborate with dietitians to improve symptom management.

Barriers and Facilitators to Engagement in Lifestyle Interventions Among Individuals With HIV

Capili, B., Anastasi, J. K., Chang, M., & Ogedegbe, O. (2014). (Vols. 25, Issues 5, pp. 450-457). 10.1016/j.jana.2014.01.003
Abstract
Abstract
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A clinical update : Nonceliac gluten sensitivity-is it really the gluten?

Capili, B., Chang, M., & Anastasi, J. K. (2014). (Vols. 10, Issues 9, pp. 666-673). 10.1016/j.nurpra.2014.07.036
Abstract
Abstract
Gluten-free diets are increasing in popularity among consumers and fueling a global market of gluten-free products. A gluten-free diet is the only treatment for celiac disease (CD). However, many patients are self-reporting and suspecting "gluten sensitivity" after gastrointestinal symptoms, such as bloating, abdominal pain, or diarrhea, resolve on a gluten-free diet without formal evaluation testing for food allergies or CD. The terms related to gluten and/or wheat intolerance, nonceliac gluten sensitivity or wheat sensitivity, CD, and wheat allergy can be confusing. These forms of intolerance combined affect approximately 10% of the United States population. In this article we clarify the range of gluten and/or wheat disorders, clinical features, diagnosis, and management.