Physical and psychosocial benefits of yoga in cancer patients and survivors, a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Abstract

BackgroundThis study aimed to systematically review the evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and to conduct a meta-analysis of the effects of yoga on physical and psychosocial outcomes in cancer patients and survivors.MethodsA systematic literature search in ten databases was conducted in November 2011. Studies were included if they had an RCT design, focused on cancer patients or survivors, included physical postures in the yoga program, compared yoga with a non-exercise or waitlist control group, and evaluated physical and/or psychosocial outcomes. Two researchers independently rated the quality of the included RCTs, and high quality was defined as >50% of the total possible score. Effect sizes (Cohen’s d) were calculated for outcomes studied in more than three studies among patients with breast cancer using means and standard deviations of post-test scores of the intervention and control groups.ResultsSixteen publications of 13 RCTs met the inclusion criteria, of which one included patients with lymphomas and the others focused on patients with breast cancer. The median quality score was 67% (range: 22–89%). The included studies evaluated 23 physical and 20 psychosocial outcomes. Of the outcomes studied in more than three studies among patients with breast cancer, we found large reductions in distress, anxiety, and depression (d = −0.69 to −0.75), moderate reductions in fatigue (d = −0.51), moderate increases in general quality of life, emotional function and social function (d = 0.33 to 0.49), and a small increase in functional well-being (d = 0.31). Effects on physical function and sleep were small and not significant.ConclusionYoga appeared to be a feasible intervention and beneficial effects on several physical and psychosocial symptoms were reported. In patients with breast cancer, effect size on functional well-being was small, and they were moderate to large for psychosocial outcomes.

Does yoga decrease cancer-related fatigue in women with breast cancer? Systematic review of randomized controlled trials

“…29 It is also important to highlight that only 35.71% (n=5) of the studies reported the process of masking of subjects.…”

“…28 This could have influenced the results of those studies that did not show significant results in favor of yoga since, in general, they had a short duration. 29 Yoga is an ancient practice that has its origin in India. Its practice typically combines physical postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama) and meditation techniques (dhyana).…”

Integrating Yoga in Oncology: Is the wait over?

“…Among these fifty seven were clinical trials; forty were randomized control trials, thirty eight systematic reviews and five Meta analyses. Evidence from these studies and metanalysis show benefit finding for the effect of yoga interventions in managing cancer treatment related distress, mood states, quality of life and symptoms [6,7].…”

Physical activity and nutrition recommendations for weight management during breast cancer treatment

“…In addition, a meta analysis of breast cancer survivors from 16 studies found that those who got the recommended 150 minutes of exercise each week had an 11% reduction in breast cancer mortality, and a 24% lower risk of overall mortality [19]. In addition, remaining physically active during recovery from breast cancer can also help to improve quality of life, body image, mood, bone health, and physical condition, while at the same time reducing fatigue, stress, and anxiety [20][21][22][23][24][25][26]. In light of this and other findings, the American Cancer Society has made the following recommendations for breast cancer survivors to maintain their weight [27]:…”