The Effectiveness of Nonpharmacological Interventions in the Management of Chemotherapy Physical Side Effects: A Systematic Review
Author: Valentina Elisabetta Di Mattei1,2, Gaia Perego1,2, Francesca Milano3, Francesca Gatti1
Affiliation:
1 School of Psychology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy.
2 Clinical and Health Psychology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy.
3 Department of Psychology, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20132 Milan, Italy.
Conference/Journal: Healthcare (Basel)
Date published: 2024 Sep 19
Other:
Volume ID: 12 , Issue ID: 18 , Pages: 1880 , Special Notes: doi: 10.3390/healthcare12181880. , Word Count: 223
Background:
Despite advancements in cancer treatment, chemotherapy side effects significantly impact patients both physically and emotionally. While pharmacological treatments can mitigate these side effects, they may trigger additional side effects, exacerbating the overall discomfort experienced by patients; moreover, psychological factors influencing physical symptoms are beyond the reach of pharmacological interventions. Nonpharmacological interventions, however, offer the potential for complementary or alternative solutions.
Objectives:
This review aims to offer a comprehensive analysis of the literature on the effectiveness of nonpharmacological interventions in managing the physical side effects of chemotherapy.
Methods:
This review, based on a search of PubMed, PsycINFO, and Web of Science databases, identified 46 relevant studies. It categorizes interventions and evaluates their effectiveness in managing common chemotherapy side effects (fatigue, nausea, pain, diarrhea, and constipation).
Results:
Guided imagery, tailored exercises, and Qigong show promise in reducing fatigue, while interventions like yoga and cognitive-behavioral approaches address nausea and vomiting. Pain benefits result from guided imagery and educational interventions. Limited evidence exists for diarrhea and constipation interventions, necessitating further research.
Conclusions:
This review offers provisional conclusions, emphasizing the potential of integrating evidence-based nonpharmacological approaches alongside pharmacological interventions to enhance patient outcomes and reduce chemotherapy-induced side effects, considering factors such as accessibility, safety, customization, and adaptability in clinical settings.
Keywords: cancer; cancer treatment; chemotherapy; integrative medicine; nonpharmacological interventions; side effects; systematic review.
PMID: 39337221 PMCID: PMC11431125 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12181880
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