The effects of body-oriented interventions in cancer-related symptoms of women who survived breast cancer: A Protocol for Systematic Review (Preprint)

ABSTRACT Background: Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide, with a five-year survival rate exceeding 90%. Despite advances in treatment, survivors frequently experience persistent cancer- and treatment-related symptoms, that negatively impact their quality of life (QoL). Body-oriented interventions (BOI) have demonstrated effectiveness in symptom management, however, systematic reviews focused exclusively on BOI for women who survived breast cancer (WSBC) remain limited. This systematic review protocol outlines the methodology for evaluating the scientific evidence on the effects of BOI on cancer- and treatment-related symptoms in WSBC. Objective: To examine the scientific evidence on the effects of BOI on cancer- and treatment-related symptoms in WSBC. Methods: This protocol follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols (PRISMA-P). We will conduct searches in six electronic databases: PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, Scopus, APA PsycNet and Portal Regional da BVS. We will include experimental studies focusing on BOI for WSBC. The methodological quality of the studies will be assessed using the PEDro scale, and the level of scientific evidence will be measured through the Best Evidence Synthesis. Two experienced independent reviewers will conduct study selection, data extraction, methodological quality and, scientific evidence assessment. Disagreements will be resolved by a third reviewer. Results: The anticipated outcomes will synthesize the scientific evidence on the effects of BOI on cancer- and treatment-related symptoms in female WSBC. Conclusions: This review will systematically synthesize the effects of BOI on cancer- and treatment-related symptoms in WSBC. The findings will provide health professionals with reliable evidence and methodological guidance for further research. Clinical Trial: CRD42023452519