Digitally distributed Yoga Intervention in Breast Cancer Rehabilitation (DigiYoga CaRe): protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Abstract

Introduction Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women. The treatment is extensive; in addition to surgery, various combinations of radiation therapy, chemotherapy and antibody and endocrine treatment can be applied. Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is high in patients with breast cancer, peaking during chemotherapy, but may persist for several years. Physical activity has proven to be effective in reducing CRF in breast cancer rehabilitation, but many patients tend to be less active after the diagnosis. Yoga has a previously demonstrated effect on energy levels and digitally distributed yoga intervention can potentially increase accessibility in pandemic times and facilitate participation for patients susceptible to infection and those living far from organised rehabilitation opportunities. The purpose of this study, Digital Yoga Intervention in Cancer Rehabilitation (DigiYoga CaRe) is to investigate whether a 12-week digitally distributed yoga intervention can reduce CRF and stress, improve health-related quality of life (HRQL) and affect pro-inflammatory and metabolic markers in patients with breast cancer. Methods and analysis This multicentre study will adopt a randomised controlled design including 240 persons after their breast cancer surgery. They will be randomised to a 12-week digitally distributed yoga intervention or to a control group. The intervention group practice yoga two times a week, one yoga class live-streamed to the patient's computer or mobile device and one prerecorded video class for self-training. The controls receive standardised care, gift cards for flowers and access to yoga video links after the data collection has ended. The primary analysis will be performed following the principle of intention to treat. Data will be collected by questionnaires, blood samples, accelerometers and interviews. Ethics and dissemination The DigiYoga CaRe study was approved by the Regional Ethical Review Board in Lund. The final results of this study will be disseminated to conference, patient and public involvements and peer-reviewed publications. Trial registration number NCT04812652.