A critical review: Effects of exercise and psychosocial interventions on the body image of breast cancer survivors.
Nga Ching Chan, Ka Ming Chow
PMID 36451297WHAT IT FOUND
Aerobic and resistance exercise, Pilates, and self-compassion writing may improve body image in breast cancer survivors, but evidence is mixed and optimal delivery is unclear.
Key findings
01Exercise studies reported positive body image changes, including a randomized trial of combined aerobic and resistance training that improved body image compared with stretching and relaxation (p < .001).
02Online self-compassion writing reduced body image distress and increased body appreciation compared with writing without self-compassion prompts (p = .035; p = .004).
03Psychotherapy and psychoeducation improved body image at post-test (ds = 0.15 to 0.43), but effects were not sustained at follow-ups (from 3 weeks to 9 months).
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for PTsWhat it means for RNs
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What it does not show
Most included studies were review articles rather than primary trials. The review included only English-language studies. The included trials used different outcome measures and intervention formats. The review did not identify the best mode of delivery. Psychosocial evidence was inconsistent, and some effects were not sustained. Quality appraisal noted weaknesses such as missing confidence intervals and unclear data collection.
Declared interests
The authors declared no conflicts of interest and reported no specific funding.
The easy way to misread this
Do not read this review as proof that any specific exercise or writing programme will improve body image in your patient. Most included studies were reviews, and the evidence on psychosocial interventions was inconsistent.