Comparative effects of different exercise interventions on the mental health of cancer patients: A systematic review and network meta-analysis
Abstract
Background: Exercise is recognized as an effective non-pharmacological intervention to improve psychological outcomes in cancer patients, but comparative evidence across exercise types remains unclear. Methods: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of 40 randomized controlled trials involving 4082 cancer patients was conducted to compare exercise modalities on quality of life and fatigue. Standardized mean differences (SMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated, and moderation analyses examined intervention duration and personalization. Results: High-intensity interval training (HIIT) showed the greatest psychological benefits, producing the largest fatigue reduction (SMD = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.52–1.04). Interventions lasting 16–24 weeks demonstrated optimal overall effects. Higher levels of supervision significantly enhanced outcomes, with personalized programs outperforming low-personalization approaches. Conclusion: HIIT and personalized, adequately long exercise programs provide the most effective psychological improvements for cancer patients. These findings support the integration of structured and individualized exercise prescriptions into routine cancer care.
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