Feasibility and potential benefits of partner‐supported yoga on psychosocial and physical function among lung cancer patients

Objective Patients with lung cancer experience significant declines in psychosocial and physical function during and after treatment that impact quality of life (QOL) and survival. Yoga is a potential strategy to mitigate functional decline among patients with lung cancer. Methods A single group 12‐week pilot trial of low‐moderate intensity yoga among patients with stage I‐IV lung cancer and their partners (n = 46; 23 patient‐partner dyads) during cancer treatment from two hospital systems. Feasibility, acceptability, descriptive statistics, and Cohen d effect sizes were calculated at 6 and 12‐weeks for psychosocial and physical outcomes using validated questionnaires and assessments. Results At 6 and 12‐weeks, retention was 65% and withdrawals were mainly due to disease progression. Among study completers (n = 26; 13 dyads) adherence was 80%. Comparing baseline to 12‐week measurements, fatigue, depression symptoms, and sleep disturbance improved in 54% of participants for all three measures (Cohen's d = 0.40‒0.53). QOL improved in 77% of participants (Cohen's d = 0.34). Upper and lower body flexibility, and lower body strength improved in 92%, 85% and 77% of participants, respectively (Cohen's d = 0.39‒1.08). Six‐minute walk test improved in 62% of participants an average of 32 meters (SD = 11.3; Cohen's d = 0.17). No serious adverse events were reported. Conclusions Among patients with stage I‐IV lung cancer including active treatment, a 12‐week partner‐supported yoga program is feasible, acceptable, and improved psychosocial and physical function. Low‐intensity yoga may be a complimentary approach to reduce the effects of cancer treatment, however, more research is needed to determine the efficacy of partner‐supported yoga to mitigate functional decline. Key Points Yoga is feasible, acceptable, and safe among patients with lung cancer. Quality of life and depression improved in 77% and 54% of participants. Physical function improved, especially flexibility, and lower body strength. Yoga is a complimentary approach to reduce deleterious cancer treatment effects. Larger, randomized yoga trials are needed.