At least one-third of individuals having cancer experience severe to moderate pain. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine if mind-body therapies can effectively alleviate cancer-related pain.
In adults (≥18 years), mind-body therapies (yoga, mindfulness,
progressive muscle relaxation, hypnosis, and guided imagery) may be effective
to relieve cancer pain.
At least one-third of individuals having cancer
experience severe to moderate pain. This systematic review and meta-analysis
aimed to examine if mind-body therapies can effectively alleviate
cancer-related pain.
Databases such as Web of Science, Embase, Science Citation Index, MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), CINAHL, trials registers, and reference lists were explored.
All quasi-randomized or randomized controlled
trials were searched that incorporated adults suffering from cancer-linked pain
who were treated with mind-body therapies. Pain intensity was the major
endpoint. Estimation of standardized mean differences (95% confidence intervals
[CI]) and risk of bias was done.
Overall, 40 primary studies involving 3569 people were identified. The meta-analysis incorporated 24 studies (2404 people) and displayed a profound effect of -0.39 (95% CI -0.62 to -0.16) having substantial heterogeneity (I2= 86.3%).
Following the exclusion of 4 "outlier" studies in the
sensitivity analyses, the effect size stayed significant but weaker. In all the
studies, an elevated risk of bias was noted such as performance biasness
attributed to lack of participant blinding. Individuals in multiple settings
were incorporated, however, numerous studies were found to be of low quality.
Though mind-body therapies seem to effectively
mitigate cancer pain, yet the quality of evidence is low. Additional
high-quality and robust clinical trials are warranted.
Psycho-oncology
Are mind-body therapies effective for relieving cancer-related pain in adults? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Nadia Danon et al.
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