Yoga and Cancer Recovery

Yoga and Cancer Recovery refers to research on yoga as a supportive care intervention during and after cancer treatment.

Summary

Studies assess yoga’s effects on cancer-related fatigue, quality of life, sleep, mood, and immune function in cancer survivors.

Key Findings

Meta-analyses show moderate improvements in fatigue, sleep quality, and quality of life during active treatment and survivorship. Yoga reduces cortisol levels and inflammatory markers in some studies. Benefits are observed across cancer types (breast, prostate, colorectal, hematological). Gentle and restorative yoga are well-tolerated during treatment.

Methodology

RCTs run 6–12 weeks during or after cancer treatment. Outcomes include FACT-F (fatigue), PSQI (sleep), and quality of life scales. Controls include waitlist, education, and standard care.

Limitations

Cancer heterogeneity complicates pooling. Effects on survival and recurrence are unknown. Sample sizes are often modest.

Verification Notes

• Buffart et al. (2012) and subsequent meta-analyses are key references.
• Literature reviewed through 2020s.