Dyadic Yoga Intervention in Improving Physical Performance and Quality of Life in Patients With Stage I-IV Non-small Cell Lung or Esophageal Cancer Undergoing Radiotherapy and Their Caregivers

Launched by M.D. ANDERSON CANCER CENTER · May 10, 2019

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring how a special type of yoga, called dyadic yoga, can help improve physical performance and quality of life for patients with non-small cell lung cancer or esophageal cancer who are receiving radiation therapy. The study is designed for patients at various stages of these cancers and their caregivers, with the goal of reducing fatigue, sleep issues, and feelings of depression while enhancing overall well-being during treatment.

To participate, patients must be diagnosed with stage I-IV non-small cell lung cancer or esophageal cancer and be scheduled to receive at least three weeks of radiation therapy. They should also have a family caregiver who provides support during treatment. Caregivers are welcome to join the yoga sessions or participate in assessments related to the study. It's important to note that patients who have practiced mind-body techniques regularly before their diagnosis are not eligible, nor are those with cancer that has spread to the brain. Participants can expect to engage in yoga sessions that focus on both physical and emotional support, aiming to enhance their experience during a challenging time.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • PATIENT ONLY: Diagnosed with stage I-IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) or esophageal cancer and going to receive at least 3 weeks of thoracic radiotherapy (RT)
• • PATIENT ONLY: Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status of ≤ 2
• • PATIENT ONLY: Able to read, write and speak English
• • PATIENT ONLY: Able to provide informed consent
• • PATIENT ONLY: Having a family caregiver (e.g., spouse, sibling, adult child) who assists the patient during the cancer treatment (e.g., emotional support, transportation, meal preparation, care coordination, etc) per patient self-report. Note, patients must identify a family caregiver; however, the participation of the family caregiver is optional. For caregivers to be eligible, they must be at least 18 years old; able to read, write and speak English; and able to provide informed consent. Family caregivers may consent to participate in the intervention and caregiver assessments or only the assessments based on their preference.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • PATIENT ONLY: Who have regularly (self-defined) participated in a mind-body practice in the year prior to diagnosis
• • PATIENT ONLY: Patients who metastatic disease involving the central nervous system