Yoga improves self-reported cognitive function among cancer survivors: results from the STAYFit trial

INTRODUCTION: Various physical activity‐based interventions have been tested to determine their efficacy in improving cancer related cognitive decline (CRCD), however the role of mind‐body practices such as yoga remains to be explored. In this manuscript we present preliminary effects of yoga vs. aerobic and stretching‐toning modalities of exercise on CRCD among adult cancer survivors. METHODS: Participants (N = 78) were randomized to one of the three exercise groups for a duration of 12‐weeks and engaged in ≥150 min per week of supervised group exercises. At baseline and following the 12‐week interventions, participants completed the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy‐Cognitive Function. RESULTS: Results demonstrated a significant group*time interaction for FACT‐Cog perceived cognitive abilities subscale, with participants in the yoga group demonstrating a significant increase as compared to the aerobic and stretching‐toning groups. The FACT‐Cog total score showed a significant time effect with all groups demonstrating a significant increase at follow‐up. Other subscales did not show any significant improvements. DISCUSSION: These findings provide promising evidence for the effects of yoga on self‐reported cognitive function in cancer survivors. Notably, 12‐weeks of yoga showed an increase in the perceived cognitive abilities and demonstrated a clinically meaningful increase in total cognitive function as measured by the FACT‐Cog, suggesting that this exercise modality has the potential to impact this important health outcome during cancer survivorship. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT03650322.