scholarly journals Yoga's Impact on Inflammation, Mood, and Fatigue in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Randomized Controlled Trial

2014 ◽  
Vol 32 (10) ◽  
pp. 1040-1049 ◽  
Author(s):  
Janice K. Kiecolt-Glaser ◽  
Jeanette M. Bennett ◽  
Rebecca Andridge ◽  
Juan Peng ◽  
Charles L. Shapiro ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Breast Cancer ◽  
Cancer Survivors ◽  
Breast Cancer Survivors ◽  
Short Form ◽  
Post Treatment ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Yoga Practice ◽  
Randomized Controlled ◽  
Yoga Group ◽  
Tnf Α

Purpose To evaluate yoga's impact on inflammation, mood, and fatigue. Patients and Methods A randomized controlled 3-month trial was conducted with two post-treatment assessments of 200 breast cancer survivors assigned to either 12 weeks of 90-minute twice per week hatha yoga classes or a wait-list control. The main outcome measures were lipopolysaccharide-stimulated production of proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and scores on the Multidimensional Fatigue Symptom Inventory-Short Form (MFSI-SF), the vitality scale from the Medical Outcomes Study 36-item Short Form (SF-36), and the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression (CES-D) scale. Results Immediately post-treatment, fatigue was not lower (P > .05) but vitality was higher (P = .01) in the yoga group compared with the control group. At 3 months post-treatment, fatigue was lower in the yoga group (P = .002), vitality was higher (P = .01), and IL-6 (P = .027), TNF-α (P = .027), and IL-1β (P = .037) were lower for yoga participants compared with the control group. Groups did not differ on depression at either time (P > .2). Planned secondary analyses showed that the frequency of yoga practice had stronger associations with fatigue at both post-treatment visits (P = .019; P < .001), as well as vitality (P = .016; P = .0045), but not depression (P > .05) than simple group assignment; more frequent practice produced larger changes. At 3 months post-treatment, increasing yoga practice also led to a decrease in IL-6 (P = .01) and IL-1β (P = .03) production but not in TNF-α production (P > .05). Conclusion Chronic inflammation may fuel declines in physical function leading to frailty and disability. If yoga dampens or limits both fatigue and inflammation, then regular practice could have substantial health benefits.

scholarly journals Effect of Tai Chi Chuan practice on immune system and pro-metastasis markers in early post-treatment breast cancer survivors

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 (1) ◽  
pp. 013-019
Author(s):  
Mary NB Cheung ◽  
Wings Tjing Yung Loo
Keyword(s):  
Breast Cancer ◽  
Immune System ◽  
Cancer Survivors ◽  
Breast Cancer Survivors ◽  
Tai Chi ◽  
Complete Blood Count ◽  
Post Treatment ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Wait List ◽  
Tai Chi Chuan

Purpose: To investigate the effect of Tai Chi Chuan (TCC) to improve immune system and decrease pro-metastasis markers in early post-treatment breast cancer survivors. Methods: 130 post-treatment breast cancer survivors were recruited and randomized 1:1 into TCC group and wait-list (control) group. The TCC group practiced for a 60-minutes session once per week, for a total of 52 weeks. 115 forms of Yang-style TCC were taught by a Tai Chi master. Blood samples were taken from each subject and complete blood count was performed. The expressions of NKG2D protein, P-selectin, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in plasma were measured. Lymphocyte activity was measured by cell proliferation reagent and ATP assay. Images of lymphocyte colony formation were taken with an inverted microscope. Results: At 52 weeks, TCC group demonstrated a significantly higher WBC (p=0.001) , a significantly higher NKG2D value (p=0.001) and a significantly lower VEGF value (p=0.005) when compared to the wait-list group. However, there was a small, non-significant change for P-selectin values between the breast cancer survivor groups. After 72h incubation, TCC group had a significant increase in lymphocyte proliferation (p=0.001) and greater area of lymphocyte clusters or colonies (p=0.001). Conclusion: The practice of TCC could stimulate tumor immunosurveillance via NKG2D and activate the immune response. VEGF, a marker playing an important role in breast cancer and its metastases, was also reduced in those who practiced TCC. As an alternative for conventional exercise, post-treatment breast cancer survivors may select TCC in their rehabilitation program.

scholarly journals A culturally tailored Internet cancer support group for Asian American breast cancer survivors: A randomized controlled pilot intervention study

2016 ◽  
Vol 23 (6) ◽  
pp. 618-626 ◽  
Author(s):  
Wonshik Chee ◽  
Yaelim Lee ◽  
Eun-Ok Im ◽  
Eunice Chee ◽  
Hsiu-Min Tsai ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Breast Cancer ◽  
Cancer Survivors ◽  
Asian American ◽  
Breast Cancer Survivors ◽  
Intervention Study ◽  
Intervention Group ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Randomized Controlled ◽  
Cancer Support ◽  
Pilot Intervention

Introduction The necessity of culturally competent Internet Cancer Support Groups (ICSGs) for ethnic minorities has recently been highlighted in order to increase its attractiveness and usage. The purpose of this study was to determine the preliminary efficacy of a culturally tailored registered-nurse-moderated ICSG for Asian American breast cancer survivors in enhancing the women’s breast cancer survivorship experience. Methods The study included two phases: (a) a usability test and an expert review; and (b) a randomized controlled pilot intervention study. The usability test was conducted among five Asian American breast cancer survivors using a one-month online forum, and the expert review was conducted among five experts using the Cognitive Walkthrough method. The randomized controlled pilot intervention study (a pre-test and post-test design) was conducted among 65 Asian American breast cancer survivors. The data were analysed using content analysis and descriptive and inferential statistics including the repeated ANOVA. Results All users and experts positively evaluated the program and provided their suggestions for the display, educational contents, and user-friendly structure. There were significant positive changes in the support care needs and physical and psychological symptoms ( p < 0.05) of the control group. There were significant negative changes in the uncertainty level of the intervention group ( p < 0.10). Controlling for background and disease factors, the intervention group showed significantly greater improvements than the control group in physical and psychological symptoms and quality of life ( p < 0.10). Discussion The findings supported the positive effects of ICSGs on support care needs, psychological and physical symptoms, and quality of life.

Exercise training, inflammatory cytokines, and other markers of low-grade inflammation in breast cancer survivors: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

2014 ◽  
Vol 32 (26_suppl) ◽  
pp. 121-121 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jose F Meneses-Echavez ◽  
Robinson Ramirez-Velez ◽  
Emilio Gonzalez-Jimenez ◽  
Jacqueline Schmidt Rio-Valle ◽  
Maria Jose Sanchez Perez ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Breast Cancer ◽  
Exercise Training ◽  
Cancer Survivors ◽  
Breast Cancer Survivors ◽  
Serum Levels ◽  
Low Grade ◽  
Exercise Interventions ◽  
Randomized Controlled ◽  
Tnf Α ◽  
Low Grade Inflammation

121 Background: Low-grade inflammation, characterized by high cytokine activity, plays a crucial role in tumorigenesis. Further, cytokines and other inflammatory biomarkers are closely implicated in tumor growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis. This metaanalysis of randomized controlled trials estimates the effects of exercise training in the control of the serum levels of cytokines and other inflammatory markers in breast cancer survivors. Methods: PRISMA statement and the Cochrane Handbook were followed. We searched MEDLINE, CENTRAL, EMBASE, Scopus and DARE database to retrieve randomized controlled trials published between 1980- March 2014 providing effect estimates of exercise interventions in the serum levels of cytokines, such as interleukin (IL) -2, IL-6, IL-8, tumoral necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and C-reactive protein (CRP) in breast cancer survivors. An Inverse of variance (IV) fixed-effects model was conducted in absence of heterogeneity (I2<50%); otherwise a random-effects model was selected. Mean Differences (MD) were calculated to estimate differences between groups (p<0.05 with 95% Confidence interval). Heterogeneity was measured with the Chi2 test (p<0.10) and I2 statistics. Results: A total of 15 studies were included (n=1,447; mean age= 51.6 years old). Exercise interventions resulted in positive effects for CRP (MD= 0.37, 95%CI, 0.04 to 0.71; p= 0.03; I2=15%), IL-2 (MD= -6.04, 85%CI, -11.41 to -0.67; p=0.03; I2=0%), IL-10 (-22.90, 95%CI, -41.27 to -4.53; p=0.001, I2=0%) and waist circumference as indicator of body composition (MD= -1.12, 95%CI, -2.06 to -0.18; p=0.02; I2=45%). Non-significant differences were observed for IL-6 and TNF-α. There was no evidence of publication bias. Conclusions: These findings suggest that exercise training improves the systemic pro-inflammatory profile in breast cancer survivors and consequently the immunological responses and the carcinogenic processes related to tumoral environment. The effects observed for IL-10 provide a novel focus of evidence for the role of exercise as an effective anti-inflammatory intervention in cancer survivors.

Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial of a Culturally Sensitive Social Support Intervention for Chinese American Breast Cancer Survivors: The Joy Luck Academy (Preprint)

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Qian Lu ◽  
Krystal Warmoth ◽  
Lingjun Chen ◽  
Christine Wu ◽  
Qiao Chu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Breast Cancer ◽  
Randomized Controlled Trial ◽  
Cancer Survivors ◽  
Asian American ◽  
Breast Cancer Survivors ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Support Intervention ◽  
Randomized Controlled ◽  
American Immigrant

BACKGROUND Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among Asian American women. Chinese American immigrant breast cancer survivors face unique challenges due to cultural and socio-ecological factors. They report emotional distress and the need for social, emotional, and spiritual support. However, culturally and linguistically appropriate information for managing their survivorship health care is often unavailable. OBJECTIVE To improve health outcomes for this underserved and understudied population, we developed, designed and launched a randomized controlled trial to test the health benefits of a culturally sensitive social support intervention (Joy Luck Academy [JLA]). In this paper, we describe the research protocol. METHODS Using a community-based participatory research approach, this randomized controlled trial will enroll Chinese-speaking stage 0-III breast cancer survivors who have completed treatment within the previous 36 months. We will randomly assign 164 participants to the intervention or a control group. The intervention arm will attend seven 3.5-hour weekly peer mentor and educational sessions. The control group will receive educational information. We will assess health outcomes at baseline, immediately after the JLA, and at 1- and 4-month follow-ups. The primary outcome is quality of life, as measured by the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy. Secondary outcomes include depressive symptoms, positive affect, fatigue, and perceived stress. We will also explore how the intervention influences cortisol levels. To identify how and in whom the program is effective, we will measure social and personal resources and theorized mechanisms and perform qualitative interviews with a subsample of participants to enhance the interpretation of quantitative data. RESULTS Recruitment began in February 2015, and data collection was completed by February 2019. We expect to complete data management by July 2021. Study results are projected to be published in 2022. CONCLUSIONS If the JLA is demonstrated to be effective, it may be easily disseminated as an intervention for other groups of Asian American immigrant breast cancer survivors; similar programs could be integrated into other diverse communities. CLINICALTRIAL ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02946697

Active Practice of Iyengar Yoga as an Intervention for Breast Cancer Survivors

2005 ◽  
Vol 15 (1) ◽  
pp. 51-59 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sally Blank ◽  
Jacqueline Kittel ◽  
Mel Haberman
Keyword(s):  
Breast Cancer ◽  
Side Effects ◽  
Cancer Survivors ◽  
Breast Cancer Survivors ◽  
Radiation Treatment ◽  
Compliance Rate ◽  
Hormonal Treatment ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Yoga Practice

The Iyengar system of Yoga is well suited to meet the guidelines for physical activity for breast cancer survivors. Attention to alignment and symmetry, the use of props, and careful sequencing all improve stamina,strength, flexibility, and confidence, while decreasing stress and side effects. Women (n = 18, ages 48 to 69 years) diagnosed with stage I–III breast cancer and receiving antiestrogen or aromatase inhibitor hormonal therapy were recruited for this study. The range of time since chemotherapy and/or radiation treatment was three months to eight years. The subjects were randomized to either a Yoga (n = 9) or wait-list control group. Beginning level Iyengar Yoga classes were conducted two times per week for eight weeks. The women were given a home instruction sheet to practice once a week at home for a total of three Yoga sessions per week. A 92.9% ± 9.8% (mean ± SD) compliance rate for weekly home practice was achieved. During the sixth week of classes, the subjects were asked to complete a 31-question self-report survey that focused on their feelings of stress, level of physical and mental effort during class sessions, and perceptions about how Yoga practice had influenced their awareness. The preliminary findings indicate that the Yoga class was well tolerated by the participants. 75% of the women reported that they would not prefer a slower paced class with less demanding poses. Yoga practice relieved the joint aches and shoulder stiffness associated with the side effects of hormonal treatment for 25% of the participants. Over 60% of the women reported improved mood and less anxiety as an outcome of the Yoga practice.

scholarly journals Perilla Oil and Bifidobacterium for Alleviating Fear of Cancer Recurrence in Breast Cancer Survivors: Study Protocol for a Three-Arm Phase II Randomized Controlled Study (POB Study)

2021 ◽  
Vol 4 (3) ◽  
pp. 46
Author(s):  
Yohei Sasaki ◽  
Mina Honyashiki ◽  
Takayuki Kinoshita ◽  
Akira Matsui ◽  
Ayako Nakashoji ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Breast Cancer ◽  
Cancer Survivors ◽  
Phase Ii ◽  
Study Protocol ◽  
Breast Cancer Survivors ◽  
Cancer Recurrence ◽  
Fear Of Cancer Recurrence ◽  
Randomized Controlled ◽  
Perilla Oil ◽  
Fear Of Cancer

The fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is the most common and most severe unmet need among cancer survivors. Safe treatments for the FCR that are easily disseminated are greatly needed. Our primary aim is a preliminary evaluation of the efficacy and effect size of perilla oil, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and Bifidobacterium, a probiotic, on FCR in breast cancer survivors after the completion of chemotherapy. This study has been planned as an exploratory clinical study (phase II) and will be conducted as a three-arm, 12-week parallel group, masked-rater randomized controlled trial. Fifteen participants will be randomized with 1:1:1 allocation to receive Bifidobacterium plus perilla oil, Bifidobacterium alone, or no intervention (control). Interventions will end within 12 weeks after the random allocation of each participant. The participants will be outpatients with invasive breast cancer aged 20 years or older whose chemotherapy was completed at least 6 months before registration; hormone therapy may be ongoing. The primary outcome will be severity of FCR at 12 weeks assessed by masked raters using the 4-item Concerns about Recurrence Scale concerning overall fear of recurrence. The study protocol for the current study is registered in the Japan Registry of Clinical Trials (jRCTs031200029).

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