Dance Interventions Improve Quality of Life and Related Psychological Factors Among Breast Cancer Survivors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

This systematic review and meta-analysis examined evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the effects of dance interventions on quality of life (QoL) in women with breast cancer. Twelve RCTs were included, and pooled effect sizes were calculated as standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Compared with controls, dance interventions significantly improved QoL (SMD [95% CI] = 0.62 [0.20, 1.05], p = 0.004) and reduced depressive symptoms (SMD [95% CI] = −0.81 [−1.50, −0.12], p = 0.02). Subgroup analyses indicated that these effects were primarily driven by dance-based physical activity (DPA), particularly in interventions lasting ≥ 12 weeks. No overall effects were found for fatigue, pain, or body image, although modest fatigue reductions were observed in DPA programs ≥ 9 weeks. Dance interventions integrating physical activity, emotional expression, and social interaction may enhance QoL and psychological well-being in women with breast cancer, although evidence for improvements in physical symptoms remains limited. Further research should standardize intervention protocols and assess long-term outcomes.