The effect of mind-body exercise on cognitive function in cancer survivors: A systematic review

Abstract

Objective: Cancer-related cognitive impairments experienced by cancer survivors cause many to seek non-pharmacological intereventions to manage these symptoms. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the effects of one such intervention, mind-body exercise (MBE), on cognitive function in cancer survivors. Design: Searches for relevant studies were conducted in four electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science. The Joanna Briggs Institute and Jadad scales were utilized to evaluate the quality of the selected studies. Results: Eleven studies including 1,032 participants, published between 2006 and 2019, were selected for review based on specific inclusion criteria. Our results indicated that interventions including, yoga, tai chi, and qigong may improve objective and subjective cognitive function in cancer survivors. Conclusion: Cancer survivors experiencing cognitive symptoms may benefit from participation in MBE. Adequately powered randomized controlled trials are required to establish the short- and long-term effects of MBE on cognitive functioning.