Effectiveness of qigong on subjective cognitive function in cancer survivors: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Qigong has shown potential as an intervention to improve cognitive function. However, research aimed at investigating its effectiveness on the management of cancer-related cognitive impairment in cancer survivors is scarce. To summarize and critically evaluate the effectiveness of qigong on managing cancer-related cognitive impairment among cancer survivors.

A comprehensive search of six databases was conducted from inception to 12 May 2025. Eligible studies were independently screened and selected, and their methodological quality was evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool 2.0. A meta-analysis was performed to summarize the overall effect size (Hedges' g) of qigong on subjective cognitive function. Subgroup, leave-one-out, and meta-regression analyses were conducted.

Nineteen studies were included in the review, and sixteen in the meta-analysis. Evidence on objective cognitive function is lacking. The overall effect size of qigong was significantly large compared to the conventional control in improving subjective cognitive function (Hedge's g = 1.22; 95% CI: 0.47, 1.97; p < 0.001) with robustness. The heterogeneity of 96.64% warrants cautious interpretation of the results, despite the statistically significant moderator of follow-up period after intervention (coefficient = 0.116, p = 0.003).

The significant effect size indicates that qigong has a strong potential to improve subjective cognitive function in cancer patients. Qigong can be an effective non-pharmacological strategy for managing cancer-related cognitive impairment.