Dance interventions improve quality of life and reduce depressive symptoms in breast cancer survivors

This systematic review and meta-analysis pooled data from 12 randomized controlled trials evaluating dance interventions in women with breast cancer (breast cancer survivors). The analysis compared dance interventions, which integrate physical activity, emotional expression, and social interaction, against control conditions. The primary outcome was quality of life (QoL).

For the main results, dance interventions significantly improved QoL compared to controls, with a standardized mean difference (SMD) of 0.62 (95% CI [0.20, 1.05], p = 0.004). Depressive symptoms were also significantly reduced (SMD = -0.81, 95% CI [-1.50, -0.12], p = 0.02). However, the meta-analysis found no overall effect on fatigue, pain, or body image. Subgroup analyses suggested effects were primarily driven by dance-based physical activity (DPA) programs, particularly those lasting 12 weeks or longer, with modest fatigue reductions observed in programs lasting at least 9 weeks.

Safety and tolerability data were not reported in the meta-analysis. A key limitation is that evidence for improvements in physical symptoms like fatigue and pain remains limited. The practice relevance is restrained: while dance may enhance QoL and psychological well-being, clinicians should recognize the current evidence does not support its use for managing common physical symptoms in this population.