Duke University researchers have found that yoga may decrease menopause symptoms in breast cancer survivors.    Traditionally, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has been used to combat symptoms like severe hot flashes, but HRT is not an option for cancer survivors because it may increase their risk of recurrence.   

A group of early-stage breast cancer survivors participated in a tailored program of yoga therapy called "Yoga of Awareness."  During the two-hour sssions, they were led through physical stretching postures, breathing exercises, meditation techniques, and study of yoga principles.  Women also were instructed to supplement in-class sessions with use of the techniques at home. 

This program is not what you'd find at your local fitness center," said Duke assistant professor Laura Porter, Ph.D., co-author of the study, in a news release. "'Yoga of Awareness' is based on traditional yoga techniques that go beyond the teaching of specific postures to incorporate practices aimed at reducing stress and creating a heightened sense of awareness and acceptance about one's physical and mental state."

The women who participated in the yoga program not only showed significant declines in the frequency and severity of their hot flashes but also experienced decreased fatigue, joint pain, sleep disturbance, and symptom-related distress. They also reported increased vigor.

The research team plans to conduct additional studies to better understand the effects of the "Yoga of Awareness" program on breast cancer patients. They also plan to teach the concepts to yoga instructors nationwide.

Co-authors on the study include Francis J. Keefe of Duke University Medical Center and Kimberly M. Carson and James W. Carson of Oregon Health and Science University.