What is the mechanism of action of this treatment?

Integrative therapies like yoga, meditation, and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) work by promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and improving emotional well-being. These treatments help manage pain, anxiety, and other symptoms by training the mind to be less reactive to painful sensations and difficult emotions. They also enhance physical outcomes by improving flexibility, strength, and overall physical function. For cancer patients, these mechanisms offer valuable non-pharmacologic options that can complement conventional treatments, potentially improving quality of life and overall treatment outcomes.

What side effects are associated with this type of intervention?

Common treatments for cancer, including physical exercise, mindfulness-based interventions, and complementary therapies like Reiki and massage, generally have minimal side effects. Physical exercise can sometimes lead to muscle soreness or fatigue, while mindfulness practices may cause temporary emotional discomfort as patients confront difficult thoughts. Reiki and massage are generally safe but may occasionally result in mild discomfort or emotional release. Conventional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy, however, have more significant side effects, including nausea, fatigue, hair loss, and increased susceptibility to infections.

What prior FDA approvals exist?

The FDA has approved various treatments for cancer that focus on both physical and psychological benefits, although specific approvals for integrative therapies like yoga are not detailed. Generally, integrative therapies such as mindfulness, meditation, and physical exercise have been recognized for their potential to improve quality of life, reduce pain, and alleviate psychological distress in cancer patients. These therapies are often recommended alongside conventional treatments to enhance overall well-being, though they are not typically FDA-approved as standalone treatments for cancer.

What other types of research exist?

Promising alternatives to yoga for cancer patients include mindfulness-based stress reduction, which has been shown to improve symptoms such as anxiety, fatigue, and fear of recurrence. Exercise programs, including aerobic and resistance training, can enhance physical capacity and quality of life. Tai Chi and Qigong are also beneficial for reducing fatigue and improving psychological well-being. Additionally, music therapy and reflexology have demonstrated effectiveness in alleviating pain and anxiety.

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Yoga for Young Adults with Cancer

N/A

Recruiting

Research Sponsored by University of Calgary

Eligibility Criteria Checklist

Specific guidelines that determine who can or cannot participate in a clinical trial

Must have

Diagnosed with cancer between the ages of 18-39 years

Be older than 18 years old

Timeline

Screening 3 weeks

Treatment Varies

Follow Up through study completion, an average of 5 years

Awards & highlights

No Placebo-Only Group

Summary

This trial is testing a yoga program to see if it helps young adults who have had cancer feel better physically and mentally. The program includes exercises and relaxation techniques to reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

Who is the study for?

This trial is for young adults aged 18-39 who have been diagnosed with cancer, are at any stage of treatment or recovery, and can safely do yoga. Participants must be able to understand and complete consent forms, questionnaires, physical assessments, and an interview in English.

What is being tested?

The study is testing a specially developed yoga program designed to improve the physical and psychological well-being of young adults with cancer. This single-group study will assess the effectiveness of the program through various methods including participant feedback.

What are the potential side effects?

Yoga is generally considered safe but may include side effects like muscle soreness or strain. The risk of more serious side effects is low if participants get medical clearance beforehand as required by this trial.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion Criteria

You may be eligible if you check “Yes” for the criteria below

Select...

I was diagnosed with cancer between 18 and 39 years old.

Timeline

Screening ~ 3 weeks3 visits

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~ through study completion, an average of 5 years

Screening ~ 3 weeks

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~through study completion, an average of 5 years

This trial's timeline: 3 weeks for screening, Varies for treatment, and through study completion, an average of 5 years for reporting.

Treatment Details

Study Objectives

Study objectives can provide a clearer picture of what you can expect from a treatment.

Primary study objectives

Reach

Secondary study objectives

Adherence

Adverse events

Aerobic endurance

+19 more

Awards & Highlights

No Placebo-Only Group

All patients enrolled in this study will receive some form of active treatment.

Trial Design

1Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Group I: YogaExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Participants receive online, group-based yoga classes 2 times/week for 60 minutes/class over 12 weeks.

Treatment

First Studied

Drug Approval Stage

How many patients have taken this drug

Yoga

2008

Completed Phase 3

~3830

0 / 1Eligibility criteria met

Research Highlights

Information in this section is not a recommendation. We encourage patients to speak with their healthcare team when evaluating any treatment decision.

Mechanism Of Action

Side Effect Profile

Prior Approvals

Other Research

Integrative therapies like yoga, meditation, and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) work by promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and improving emotional well-being. These treatments help manage pain, anxiety, and other symptoms by training the mind to be less reactive to painful sensations and difficult emotions. They also enhance physical outcomes by improving flexibility, strength, and overall physical function. For cancer patients, these mechanisms offer valuable non-pharmacologic options that can complement conventional treatments, potentially improving quality of life and overall treatment outcomes.