Non-drug approaches may help cancer-related cognition, but the evidence remains uncertain
A review found different results for patients’ own cognitive ratings and formal tests, with substantial variation between studies.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
Several approaches showed improvements in how patients rated their cognition, in cognitive test performance, or both. Cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness appeared in both sets of positive results. However, study results varied substantially and evidence certainty was generally low. The abstract does not establish which approach works best for an individual patient.
Some positive estimates for objective cognition rested on only one comparison. The abstract does not identify comparator conditions or follow-up lengths, and the authors report generally low evidence certainty.
Patients’ own cognitive ratings
Improvements in patients’ own ratings of cognition were reported for cognitive behavioral therapy approaches, physical activity and mindfulness. This outcome reflects perceived cognitive function; it should be kept distinct from performance on formal cognitive tests.
Performance on cognitive tests
Cognitive training, cognitive behavioral therapy approaches, mindfulness and acupuncture showed improvements on objective cognitive measures. The amount of supporting evidence differed across approaches, and the abstract does not establish reliable head-to-head superiority among them.
The original publication
Effects of non-pharmacological interventions in patients with cancer-related cognitive impairment: A meta-analysis.
Xin Z, Li J, Hu Y et al.
Int J Nurs Stud · 2026
- PubMed ID
- 41380526
- Record checked
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