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image of The Impact of Non-pharmacologic Traditional Chinese Medicine on Health-Related Quality of Life and Symptom Management in Breast Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Background

Breast cancer remains a prevalent malignancy among women globally. Survivors often experience diminished quality of life, pain, and sleep disturbances after treatment and suffer feelings of isolation. Non-pharmacological traditional Chinese medicine (NP-TCM) interventions have been increasingly applied in clinical practice, yet their efficacy requires further clarification.

Objective

This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the impact of NP-TCM interventions (. Qigong, Tai Chi, Baduanjin) on the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in breast cancer patients.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials published between 1999 and 2024 were retrieved from various databases. Studies comparing NP-TCM and control groups in quality of life and other outcomes were included. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 software. 14 RCTs with 688 patients were included.

Results

NP-TCM interventions significantly improved overall quality of life (SMD=0.13, 95%CI 0.24~0.51, <0.001). Specifically, Baduanjin demonstrated substantial benefits (SMD=0.82, <0.001). NP-TCM also enhanced sleep (SMD=1.16, =0.04) and alleviated anxiety (SMD=-0.46, <0.05).

Conclusion

NP-TCM interventions effectively improved the HRQOL and certain symptoms for breast cancer patients, providing practical adjunctive therapies. However, study qualities require optimization.

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2025-01-14
2025-03-13

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The Impact of Non-pharmacologic Traditional Chinese Medicine on Health-Related Quality of Life and Symptom Management in Breast Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Bentham Science Publishers ; https://doi.org/10.2174/0115734048341106241202113327
/content/journals/cwhr/10.2174/0115734048341106241202113327
/content/journals/cwhr/10.2174/0115734048341106241202113327
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  • Article Type:     Research Article
Keywords: traditional chinese medicine ; meta-analysis ; health-related quality of life (HRQOL) ; systematic review ; non-pharmacologic interventions ; Breast cancer

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