LifestyleExercise

Exercise interventions improve sleep quality in breast cancer survivors

A meta-analysis of 31 randomized controlled trials found that exercise interventions significantly improve sleep quality in breast cancer survivors (Hedges' g = -0.63, 95% CI -0.80 to -0.46, P = 0.00). Subgroup analyses suggested larger effects for yoga, sessions of 60 minutes, three times per week, and interventions lasting more than 12 weeks, with comparable effects for group and individual formats.

Last updated: Sep 2, 2026•0 RCTs•1 Meta-analyses•📖 Read as article →

Evidence Score

Evidence Score49/100
Human RCT☆☆☆☆☆
Meta-analysis★★★☆☆
Mechanism★★★★★
Safety★★★★☆
Confidencelow

Study Evidence

Study 1. Effects of exercise interventions on sleep quality in breast cancer survivors: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

observational

Yu H, Zhong J, Chen S, Li M, Guo J · Frontiers in oncology (2026)

Participants: N/A
Duration: Not specified (interventions varied; >12 weeks showed larger effects)
Intervention: Exercise interventions (including yoga, aerobic, resistance, and combined modalities)
Outcome: Sleep quality (measured via various scales, likely including PSQI)
Effect Size: g = -0.63, 95% CI (-0.80, -0.46)
Population: Breast cancer survivors (postoperative)

Result:

PubMed: 42676424DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2026.1860273

Mechanism Graph

Exercise may reduce inflammation and stress hormones
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Exercise may improve mood and reduce anxiety/depression
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Exercise may regulate circadian rhythms and body temperature
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Result: Improved sleep quality

Limitations

  • ⚠Subgroup analyses were exploratory and not based on direct comparisons, so no definitive optimal prescription
  • ⚠Potential publication bias and heterogeneity across studies not fully addressed in abstract
  • ⚠Only abstracts of included studies may have been assessed; risk of bias details not fully reported

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of exercise were included in this meta-analysis?▼

The meta-analysis included various exercise interventions, with yoga being one of the most effective subtypes. Other types likely included aerobic, resistance, and combined exercises.

How much exercise is recommended for improving sleep in breast cancer survivors?▼

While the optimal prescription is not established, exploratory subgroup analyses suggested that yoga performed three times per week for 60 minutes per session for more than 12 weeks yielded the largest effect sizes.

Is group exercise as effective as individual exercise for sleep quality?▼

Yes, the effect sizes were comparable between group (g = -0.65) and individual (g = -0.60) interventions, suggesting both formats are beneficial.

What was the overall effect size of exercise on sleep quality?▼

The overall effect size was g = -0.63 (95% CI -0.80 to -0.46), indicating a moderate improvement in sleep quality.

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References

  1. 1.Yu H, Zhong J, Chen S, Li M, Guo J. "Effects of exercise interventions on sleep quality in breast cancer survivors: a systematic review and meta-analysis.." Frontiers in oncology, 2026. PMID: 42676424 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2026.1860273
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Evidence scores reflect the quality and quantity of available research, not clinical recommendations. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement or intervention.