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Optimal Exercise Modality and Dose to Alleviate Depressive and Anxiety Symptoms in Patients With Cancer: A Network
Bing Zeng1, Jiu Chen1, Hai Wang1
1Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing, China.
Mind-body exercise (MBE) and aerobic exercise (AE) significantly reduce cancer-related depression and anxiety. Optimal exercise doses follow a U-shaped curve, suggesting tailored prescriptions for better outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Exercise Science
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Cancer patients frequently experience depressive and anxiety symptoms.
- Exercise is a potential non-pharmacological intervention for managing these symptoms.
- Evidence on optimal exercise modalities and dosage for cancer patients is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of different exercise modalities in alleviating depressive and anxiety symptoms in cancer patients.
- To investigate the dose-response relationship between exercise and symptom improvement.
- To identify optimal exercise prescriptions for cancer patients.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review and network meta-analysis of 67 randomized controlled trials (5778 patients).
- Searches conducted in major databases up to January 2026.
- Statistical analyses included comparisons of exercise modalities and dose-response evaluations.
Main Results:
- Mind-body exercise (MBE), combined aerobic and resistance exercise (COM), and aerobic exercise (AE) significantly reduced depressive symptoms.
- MBE and AE improved anxiety symptoms, with MBE showing the most significant benefit.
- A nonlinear U-shaped dose-response relationship was observed for both depression and anxiety, with optimal doses identified.
Conclusions:
- Exercise modalities differ in their effectiveness for managing cancer-related psychological distress.
- MBE demonstrates the greatest overall benefit for both depressive and anxiety symptoms.
- A U-shaped dose-response curve suggests that precise exercise prescriptions, considering modality and dose, can optimize symptom management.
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