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Systematic Review of Functional Outcomes in Cancer Rehabilitation
Alix Sleight1, Lynn H Gerber2, Timothy F Marshall3
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, United States; Center for Integrated Research in Cancer and Lifestyle (CIRCL), Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, United States; Cedars Sinai Cancer, Los Angeles, California, United States; Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, United States.
Cancer rehabilitation interventions show significant benefits for physical and cognitive function in survivors. While many studies had limitations, 71% reported positive outcomes, supporting intervention efficacy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Evidence-Based Practice
Background:
- Cancer survivors often experience impaired physical and cognitive functions.
- Rehabilitation interventions aim to restore optimal function and improve quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review evidence on rehabilitation interventions for cancer survivors.
- To assess the breadth, strengths, and limitations of evidence across functional domains.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of prospective, controlled trials from 2008-2019.
- Searched PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase.
- Included studies with primary functional outcome measures; excluded pilot/feasibility studies.
Main Results:
- 362 studies analyzed across 9 functional areas: quality of life, daily living, fatigue, mobility, exercise, cognition, communication, sexual function, and return to work.
- Most studies were class III quality/bias.
- 71% of studies reported statistically significant improvements in at least one functional outcome.
Conclusions:
- Rehabilitative interventions are effective for cancer survivors.
- Findings should consider moderate risk of bias and study quality limitations.
- Results can inform future clinical practice guidelines for cancer rehabilitation.
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