LifestyleExercise

Nature-based physical activity may improve sleep disturbances in breast cancer survivors

The paper discusses that breast cancer survivors frequently experience sleep disturbances, and nature-based physical activity (NBPA) is proposed as a promising complementary approach to improve these outcomes. However, direct evidence specifically addressing breast cancer survivors remains limited, and the proposed mechanisms are considered plausible hypotheses requiring further validation.

Last updated: Jul 25, 2026•0 RCTs•📖 Read as article →

Evidence Score

Evidence Score32/100
Human RCT☆☆☆☆☆
Meta-analysis☆☆☆☆☆
Mechanism★★★★★
Safety★★★★☆
Confidencelow

Study Evidence

Study 1. Nature-based physical activity in breast cancer survivors: a new frontier in supportive care.

observational

Carretti G, Manetti M, Marini M · Oncology reviews (2026)

Participants: N/A
Duration: N/A
Intervention: Nature-based physical activity (NBPA), including walking, Nordic walking, aquatic disciplines, green mind-body practices, and forest-based programs
Outcome: Sleep disturbances, cancer-related fatigue, cardiovascular dysfunction, sarcopenia, emotional distress, quality of life
Effect Size: N/A
Population: Breast cancer survivors

Result:

PubMed: 42488501DOI: 10.3389/or.2026.1837259

Mechanism Graph

Nature exposure supports stress reduction and autonomic regulation
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Physical activity improves physical function and psychological wellbeing
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Combined effects enhance psychological resilience and immune function
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Result: Potential improvement in sleep disturbances and overall quality of life

Limitations

  • ⚠Direct evidence specifically addressing breast cancer survivors remains limited
  • ⚠Proposed psychophysiological mechanisms are currently regarded as plausible hypotheses requiring further validation through dedicated clinical studies

Frequently Asked Questions

What is nature-based physical activity (NBPA)?▼

NBPA is exercise performed in natural environments, such as walking in parks, Nordic walking, aquatic activities, green mind-body practices, and forest-based programs.

Does NBPA improve sleep in breast cancer survivors?▼

The paper suggests NBPA may improve sleep disturbances through stress reduction and autonomic regulation, but direct evidence in breast cancer survivors is limited and more research is needed.

What are the main benefits of NBPA for cancer survivors?▼

Potential benefits include improved physical function, psychological wellbeing, reduced fatigue, and better emotional health, though many effects are still under investigation.

Why is adherence to exercise low in breast cancer survivors?▼

Barriers include treatment-related symptoms, motivational challenges, and limited access to tailored supervised programs.

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References

  1. 1.Carretti G, Manetti M, Marini M. "Nature-based physical activity in breast cancer survivors: a new frontier in supportive care.." Oncology reviews, 2026. PMID: 42488501 DOI: 10.3389/or.2026.1837259
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.