Study Finds Yoga May Benefit Cancer Survivors

A recent clinical trial published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology indicates that yoga may help reduce insomnia, fatigue, and mood disturbances in cancer survivors. The study, funded by the National Cancer Institute, involved 204 cancer survivors receiving standard care and 206 who participated in the Yoga for Cancer Survivors (YOCAS) program. The YOCAS program includes both hatha and restorative yoga practices. Participants in the YOCAS group practiced yoga for an average of 180 minutes each week over three sessions. At the end of the trial, those in the YOCAS group reported improvements in mood, anxiety, and fatigue, while the standard care group did not show similar benefits. Researchers noted that improvements in insomnia may be linked to changes in mood and fatigue. Dr. Fumiko Chino from MD Anderson Cancer Center emphasized the significance of the study as it offers a non-pharmaceutical approach to managing side effects for cancer survivors. Dr. Timothy Pearman, director of supportive oncology at the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, stated that yoga is a validated intervention for managing cancer-related symptoms. The study also highlighted that yoga can be adapted for individuals with physical impairments and is accessible to many.