Data Sheet 1_Mind–body exercise for symptom management in cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis.pdf

ObjectiveThe aim of this study is to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis and to evaluate changes in the mental health, physical symptoms, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in cancer patients following mind–body exercise training.
MethodsAs of February 2026, this study retrieved data from eight databases. Eventually, 19 randomized clinical trials using the mind–body exercise were conducted. This meta-analysis synthesized outcome indicators related to cancer symptoms to obtain pooled effect sizes.
ResultsIn this meta-analysis, interventions in mind–body exercise in terms of anxiety (standardized mean difference, SMD = −0.39, 95% CI −0.65 to −0.13), depression (SMD = −0.34, 95%CI −0.59 to −0.10), fatigue (SMD = −0.40, 95% CI −0.78 to −0.02), sleep (SMD = −0.60, 95% CI −1.15 to −0.05), and HRQOL (SMD = 0.38, 95% CI 0.17–0.60) are statistically significant when compared with usual care. The subgroup analysis indicated that a longer intervention period (≥ 8 weeks) might show stronger effects. Based on the intervention types, traditional Chinese exercise significantly improved anxiety, depression, sleep quality, and HRQOL, while yoga significantly reduced fatigue and also improved HRQOL.
ConclusionMind–body exercise is an effective rehabilitation method for alleviating cancer symptoms, significantly improving mental health, physical symptoms and quality of life. They are suitable as non-pharmacological supplementary intervention measures for cancer patients and are recommended for wide application in clinical practice.