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Impact of Pulmonary Rehabilitation in Lung Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review

Jagurothula Bhaskara Rao
PhD Scholar, Department of Physiotherapy, School of Allied Health Sciences, Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies, Faridabad, Haryana, India
Kshitija Bansal
Associate Professor, Department of Physiotherapy, School of Allied Health Sciences, Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies, Faridabad, Haryana, India.
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  • Submited: October 1, 2024
  • Published: April 7, 2025

Abstract

Background: After any surgical intervention for lung cancer, patients experience hypoxemia and reduced gas exchange due to damage to the structure and physiology of the lungs. This can lead to respiratory failure in some patients. Breathing exercises consist of various respiratory techniques which enhance the inhalation and exhalation process in lung cancer patients by enabling them to take deeper breaths and utilize more oxygen. This systematic review aims to evaluate the impact of breathing exercises on lung cancer patients regarding improvements in lung function and pulmonary complications.

Methods: From 2019 to 2024, literature was searched in electronic databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect. The terms "breathing exercises," "lung cancer," and "adults" were used to conduct the literature search and identify relevant studies. The methodological quality of the included studies was evaluated using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT).

Results: Overall, six studies were included based on the selection criteria for this review. Following the quality assessment, all six studies were reported to be of high quality according to the MMAT. The studies demonstrated the impact of various breathing exercises on improving dyspnea and quality of life (QOL) in patients with lung cancer. 

Conclusion: The review highlighted the positive impact of various breathing exercises on physical activity, exercise capacity, respiratory function, dyspnea, short-term recovery quality, cardiorespiratory fitness, quality of life, postoperative complications, psychological symptoms, length of hospital stay, and mortality rate. 

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How to Cite
Rao, J. B., & Bansal, K. (2025). Impact of Pulmonary Rehabilitation in Lung Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review. Ethiopian Medical Journal, 63(2). Retrieved from https://emjema.org/index.php/EMJ/article/view/2737

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