Effects of Yoga-Based Interventions on Cancer-Associated Cognitive Decline: a Systematic Review

Author: Mohamad Baydoun1 , Devesh Oberoi1 , Michelle Flynn2 , Chelsea Moran2 , Andrew McLennan1 , Katherine-Ann L Piedalue1 , Linda E Carlson3
Affiliation:
1 Cumming School of Medicine, Department of Psychosocial Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.
2 Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.
3 Cumming School of Medicine, Department of Psychosocial Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada. l.carlson@ucalgary.ca.
Conference/Journal: Curr Oncol Rep
Date published: 2020 July 28
Other: Volume ID: 22 , Issue ID: 10 , Pages: 100 , Special Notes: doi: 10.1007/s11912-020-00960-5. , Word Count: 163


PMID: 32725436 DOI: 10.1007/s11912-020-00960-5

Abstract

Purpose of review: To summarize and evaluate evidence available on the effects of yoga on cancer-associated cognitive decline (CACD).

Recent findings: A systematic review was conducted using four databases of articles published before January 1, 2020. Ten articles met the inclusion criteria (six randomized controlled trials, two single-arm studies, one non-randomized controlled trial, and one case series study). Studies were predominantly conducted with breast cancer patients using low-intensity hatha yoga programs. Of the 10 articles, five reported some positive effects on CACD, but significant biases were possible due to design shortcomings. Cohen's d effect sizes ranged from |0.03| to |0.74|. The evidence to date is insufficient to suggest that yoga is beneficial for attenuating CACD. More rigorous trials controlling for non-specific factors are warranted. The field would also benefit from examining self-delivered modes of yoga for treating CACD in various cancer populations to enhance practice sustainability and generalizability.

Keywords: Breast cancer; Cancer; Cancer-associated cognitive decline; Complementary therapies; Integrative oncology; Psycho-oncology; Yoga.

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