Effectiveness of Yoga on Quality of Life of Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy

Abstract

Introduction:  Among cancer of different organs in the body, the carcinoma of the breast is highest in occurrence worldwide, after lung cancer. It occurs mostly in women. While undergoing chemotherapy women have side effects which affects their quality of life. Yoga practices comprising of relaxation techniques reduce many side effects and improve the quality of life of women undergoing chemotherapy.

Material and methods:  Quantitative Research approach and Randomized Controlled study with Time series design was followed. The consecutive sampling technique was used to enroll 100 breast cancer patients. Enrolled patients were randomized into control (N=52) and experiment (N=48) groups by concealed randomization. Written informed consent obtained from each study participant. Baseline data on quality of life was collected during cycle one by using EORTC QLQ BR 23. The patients in the experimental group were taught Diaphragmatic breathing, systematic relaxation and alternate nostril breathing and Joints and Glands neck and shoulder exercises and were instructed to practice them twice daily at home. They were supervised in practicing these when they received second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth cycles of chemotherapy. Participants in control group received routine care. Data on quality of life was again collected after 21 days during second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth cycles of chemotherapy.

Results: Results showed that at baseline the patients in the control and the experimental groups were having similar mean scores in components of Functional and Symptom Scales. There was significant difference between the groups with regards to body image, Future Perspectives, Systemic therapy side effects, Breast symptoms, Arm Symptoms, Upset by hair loss.

Conclusion: Yoga intervention was effective improving the quality of life of breast cancer patients in experimental group with respect to the perception of body image and future perspectives and decreasing the adverse effect symptoms of chemotherapy and arm & breast symptoms, distress caused by alopecia, i.e. hair loss, during the period of chemotherapy.