Meta-analysis of meditative/relaxation-based interventions for cognitive impairment in cancer patient.
Yang Zhang, Yanhua Luo, Yingchun Zeng
PMID 31406760WHAT IT FOUND
In four small trials, meditative/relaxation programmes (including meditation, Qigong, and Yoga) improved self-reported cognitive function and mental quality of life, but objective cognition did not.
Key findings
01Across four RCTs (290 participants), meditative/relaxation interventions improved subjective cognitive function: weighted mean difference 5.29 (95% CI 2.97 to 7.61; P < 0.00001).
02Objective cognitive function did not improve significantly: only two RCTs reported objective tests, Z score 1.21, P 0.23.
03Mental quality of life improved significantly (Z score 2.99, P 0.003).
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for RNs
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What it does not show
The meta-analysis included only four randomized trials, so the pooled results are based on a small evidence base. Blinding of participants and personnel was the highest risk of bias, and subjective cognitive function was a primary outcome. Objective cognitive function was assessed in only two trials. Follow-up was only immediate post-intervention or within half a year. The included trials used different interventions (meditation, Qigong, and Yoga), so the evidence cannot show which component works.
The easy way to misread this
Do not conclude that meditative/relaxation programmes, including meditation, Qigong, and Yoga, improve objective cognitive impairment. Objective cognition was not significant, and the subjective benefit came from four trials with high risk of bias in blinding and no long-term follow-up.