In 2022, Gothe, et. al., conducted study about Yoga which has gained widespread popularity as a beneficial mind-body practice among various clinical populations and older adults, particularly for managing age and chronic disease-related symptoms. However, limited research has explored its feasibility and acceptability, especially among cancer survivors. Feasibility studies are crucial in assessing whether a specific intervention is practical and well-received within the target population before conducting larger-scale trials. In this scientific journalism article, we present the results of the STAYFit trial—a 12-week randomized controlled trial (RCT) designed for adult cancer survivors.

A total of 233 adults were initially screened for eligibility, out of which 109 were found suitable for participation. Ultimately, 78 participants, with a mean age of 55 years, were randomized into three groups: Hatha yoga, aerobic exercise, or a stretching-toning control group. All groups attended group exercise classes, lasting 150 minutes per week over the course of 12 weeks. The study primarily assessed the feasibility and acceptability of the interventions, including enrollment rates, attendance, attrition, adverse events, and participant feedback and satisfaction.

Of the eligible participants, 78 were successfully enrolled and allocated to the respective intervention arms. High session attendance rates were observed across all groups, ranging from 75.5% to 89.5%. During the 12-week intervention period, 17 participants withdrew from the study. Importantly, no adverse events were reported among the participants. Satisfaction levels with the program were notably high, with a mean rating of 4.8 or higher out of 5. Additionally, a subset of participants (n = 15) had to transition to remote intervention delivery due to the unforeseen COVID-19 pandemic. Remarkably, these participants reported that synchronous group exercise classes via Zoom, led by a live instructor, were both acceptable and enjoyable.

The findings from the STAYFit trial demonstrated that the yoga intervention, along with the aerobic and stretching-toning exercises, was highly feasible and well-accepted among adult cancer survivors. The results of this study are valuable for researchers, as they provide insights into estimating recruitment rates necessary for desired sample sizes to effectively randomize and retain cancer survivors in future yoga-based efficacy and effectiveness trials. Furthermore, the evidence generated can be used by clinicians to recommend up to 150 minutes of combined exercise—comprising aerobic, yoga, or stretching-toning—to improve the health and overall well-being of cancer patients during their survivorship journey.

In summary, the STAYFit trial offers promising evidence supporting the use of yoga, aerobic exercise, and stretching-toning in enhancing the quality of life and overall health of adult cancer survivors. By emphasizing the feasibility and acceptability of these interventions, this research paves the way for more extensive and impactful studies in the future, ultimately contributing to improved survivorship care and patient outcomes.

Reference: Gothe, N. P., & Erlenbach, E. (2022). Feasibility of a yoga, aerobic and stretching-toning exercise program for adult cancer survivors: the STAYFit trial. Journal of Cancer Survivorship, 16(5), 1107-1116.