Cognitive training for breast cancer patients with cancer-related cognitive impairment: a scoping review

This scoping review investigates the role of cognitive training in addressing cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) in breast cancer patients, examining study characteristics and outcomes, and identifying significant gaps in the existing body of evidence.

This scoping review adhered to the JBI methodology and followed the PRISMA statement for scoping reviews. A systematic search was conducted across 12 electronic databases, including both English and Chinese databases as well as grey literature sources. Data extraction was performed independently by two reviewers.

A total of 26 studies were included, comprising 19 randomized controlled trials, 1 single-arm open-label interventional study, 1 phase I/II dose-escalation trial, 3 quasi-experimental studies, 1 qualitative study, and 1 mixed-methods study. Cognitive training interventions varied in delivery methods, targeting memory, executive function, attention, and processing speed. Intervention details such as duration and intensity were highly variable, and monitoring adherence was infrequently reported. Cognitive training demonstrated positive effects on short-term cognitive function, with 23 studies reporting improvements. Long-term effects were limited.

Cognitive training may improve cognitive function in breast cancer patients with CRCI. Heterogeneity in interventions and limited long-term data constrain generalizability. Standardizing key components, assessing long-term effects, and exploring underlying mechanisms can inform targeted, personalized interventions.