Abstract
Yoga is an alternative physical activity (PA) option for cancer survivors, providing many of the same benefits as traditional PA on outcomes, including physical fitness and overall quality of life (QOL). The purpose of this study was to assess the physical and psychological benefits of yoga therapy for prostate cancer survivors (PCS). Method: 15 PCS and 10 support persons were randomized to a two-arm, 14-week intervention. At three time points all participants completed assessments of demographics, PA levels (Godin's LSI), QOL (FACT-P), Fatigue (FACT-F), thermometer scales (stress, mood and fatigue), and Perceived Social Support (SPS). Results: PCS were on average 64.5 years and 53.3% were less than one year post-treatment. Adherence to the yoga class was high (avg. 6/7 classes). PA levels during the adherence and maintenance phases were similar between those who chose to bring/not bring a support person, while levels of perceived social support were higher for those who brought a support person to the yoga class.Significant improvement was reported for all participants on measures of stress, fatigue and mood pre-post each class. No clinically significant changes were noted on PCS's QOL or fatigue. Conclusions:The program had a high adherence and there were acute program benefits in regards to stress, fatigue and mood for all participants. Future examination of the group cohesion influences on social support for cancer survivors in yoga programs should be considered.Acknowledgments: Faculty of Graduate Studies (University of Calgary), Faculty of Kinesiology (University of Calgary), Government of Alberta & Canadian Institutes of Health Research