Cancers

Research

14 pages, 1996 KB

Open AccessArticle

Take a Breather—Physiological Correlates of a Conscious Connected Breathing Session in a Trained Group of Breast Cancer Patients

by Alicja Heyda, Agnieszka Gdowicz-Kłosok, Magdalena Bugowska, Marcela Krzempek, Kinga Dębiec, Jolanta Mrochem-Kwarciak and Krzysztof Składowski

Cancers 2025, 17(22), 3690; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17223690 - 18 Nov 2025

Viewed by 568

Abstract

Introduction/Goal: Stress and negative emotions have been shown to exert a substantial impact on cancer patients, affecting their ability to adapt to therapy and the overall effectiveness. Elevated cortisol levels, a stress-induced hormone, have been shown to suppress immune system function, potentially reducing [...] Read more.

Introduction/Goal: Stress and negative emotions have been shown to exert a substantial impact on cancer patients, affecting their ability to adapt to therapy and the overall effectiveness. Elevated cortisol levels, a stress-induced hormone, have been shown to suppress immune system function, potentially reducing the body’s capacity to combat cancer cells. On the contrary, prolactin, a hormone that stimulates the immune system, has shown potential in this context but requires further study. The objective of this study was to investigate the acute physiological changes that occur during a single Conscious Connected Breathing (CCB) session, as part of a larger investigation on Integrative Breathwork Psychotherapy (IBP), a novel integrative psychosomatic intervention designed to improve psychosomatic and immune status in cancer patients. Methods: The project involved 93 breast cancer patients hospitalized for postoperative radiotherapy who participated in a ten-session IBP program. Fifty-six patients agreed to participate (response rate: 60%). During the experiment, 8 patients were excluded from the analysis. IBP consisted of small group sessions (up to six participants) conducted three times weekly. Each session included 45 min of CCB—defined as rhythmic circular nasal breathing at a depth exceeding resting tidal volume, without breath-holding, performed in a state of mindful acceptance—followed by 15 min of free emotional expression (verbal articulation of emerging feelings and sensations). This was a within-subject pre-post design: physiological measurements were obtained immediately before and 30 min into the tenth session (when participants had achieved technical proficiency) in all participants, who served as their own controls. Outcome measures included: arterialized capillary blood gas parameters (pH, pCO₂, pO₂, ctO₂, COHb, HHb, cH⁺), serum cortisol and prolactin concentrations, and immunoglobulin A (IgA). Results: During the CCB session, blood gas analysis revealed significant changes consistent with mild respiratory alkalosis: decreases in pCO₂ (p = 0.003), pO₂ (p < 0.001), cH⁺ (p < 0.001), ctO₂ (p < 0.001), COHb (p = 0.03), and HHb (p = 0.004), alongside an increase in pH (p < 0.001). Concurrently, prolactin levels increased significantly (p < 0.001), while cortisol (p < 0.001) and IgA (p < 0.001) decreased. Conclusions: This study is the first to analyze acute changes in capillary blood gas parameters and neuroendocrine balance during Conscious Connected Breathing sessions in cancer patients, revealing measurable immunostimulatory and stress-modulatory effects. The observed shift toward respiratory alkalosis, combined with increased prolactin and decreased cortisol, suggests that CCB may facilitate favorable neuroendocrine-immune interactions. These findings support the potential of breathwork as a complementary therapy for cancer patients. Further research is needed to explore underlying mechanisms and assess long-term psychological and immunological impacts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Empowering Cancer Survivors: A Comprehensive Approach to Supportive Care Through Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Approaches Including Exercise, Physical Activity and Nutrition)

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19 pages, 677 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Mistletoe and Breast Cancer (MAB) Study: A UK Mixed-Phase, Pilot, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind, Randomised Controlled Trial

by Lorna J. Duncan, Susan Bryant, Gene Feder, Maria Gresham, Poppy Gibson, Debbie Sharp, Jeremy P. Braybrooke and Alyson L. Huntley

Cancers 2025, 17(19), 3169; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17193169 - 29 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Background/Objective: To test the feasibility of a mixed-phase, pilot, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial of mistletoe therapy (MT) with an embedded qualitative study in the UK National Health Service (NHS) setting. Methods: The aim was to recruit 45 patients via an NHS oncology centre with [...] Read more.

Background/Objective: To test the feasibility of a mixed-phase, pilot, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial of mistletoe therapy (MT) with an embedded qualitative study in the UK National Health Service (NHS) setting. Methods: The aim was to recruit 45 patients via an NHS oncology centre with a diagnosis of early or locally advanced breast cancer. Participants were allocated to Iscador^® Malus, Iscador^® Pinus, or physiological saline (placebo). Diaries and quality-of-life questionnaires were administered. Qualitative interviews were conducted with participants, oncologists, and nurses. Feasibility was assessed by recruitment, retention, adherence, blinding, and safety. Results: Sixty-seven patients were approached between August 2019 and March 2020, 15 gave consent, 14 participants were randomised, and 2 withdrew during the trial. Ten participants and five staff were interviewed. Barriers to recruitment were the additional treatments/time, extra injections, and the possibility of placebo allocation. Adherence was very good whilst the participants were on the study therapy. Diaries and interviews indicated that 11/14 participants struggled with injections and skin reactions. There were 22 adverse events due to the MT, related to the injections or skin reactions. Conclusion: This pilot study examined the feasibility of conducting a randomised placebo-controlled, double-blind trial of mistletoe therapy for breast cancer patients within the UK NHS. The results describe the challenges and achievements of recruitment, retention, adherence, blinding, and safety in this context. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Empowering Cancer Survivors: A Comprehensive Approach to Supportive Care Through Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Approaches Including Exercise, Physical Activity and Nutrition)

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16 pages, 273 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Physical Activity Levels, Barriers, and Education Sources in People with Cancer Undergoing Chemotherapy

by Rebecca Cesnik, Kellie Toohey, Nicole Freene and Stuart Semple

Cancers 2025, 17(18), 2987; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17182987 - 12 Sep 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1061

Abstract

Purpose: Physical activity (PA) during chemotherapy can lessen side effects, support treatment adherence, and improve overall outcomes, yet the barriers to PA in this population remain underexplored. This study assessed self-reported PA levels, barriers, and sources of PA education among adults with cancer [...] Read more.

Purpose: Physical activity (PA) during chemotherapy can lessen side effects, support treatment adherence, and improve overall outcomes, yet the barriers to PA in this population remain underexplored. This study assessed self-reported PA levels, barriers, and sources of PA education among adults with cancer undergoing chemotherapy. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among adult outpatients receiving chemotherapy in the ACT, Australia. The survey collected demographic information, PA levels using the modified Godin–Shephard Leisure Time Questionnaire, barriers to PA, and sources of PA education. Both quantitative and qualitative analyses were performed. Results: Of 111 participants (mean age 59.2), only 11.7% met ‘active’ PA status and 9.9% met resistance exercise guidelines. Barriers included fatigue, strength, pain, motivation, nausea, and lack of time. Notably, almost one-third received no PA education during chemotherapy, and nearly half wanted more. Education by accredited exercise physiologists increased resistance exercise participation. Conclusions: Few participants met PA recommendations during chemotherapy, with many reporting insufficient PA education and significant barriers. These findings highlight critical gaps in patient care and education. Addressing these through integrated, evidence-based PA programs and policy changes could enhance patient health, improve outcomes, and reduce disparities in supportive cancer care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Empowering Cancer Survivors: A Comprehensive Approach to Supportive Care Through Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Approaches Including Exercise, Physical Activity and Nutrition)

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15 pages, 672 KB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating the Impact of Weekly Physical Performance Reports on Daily Physical Activity and Symptoms Among Cancer Survivors: Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial

by Mingfang Li, Chitchanok Benjasirisan, Jingyu Zhang, Jennifer Yeong-Shin Sheng, Junxin Li, Sarah Allgood, Michael Carducci, Johannes Thrul and Nada Lukkahatai

Cancers 2025, 17(17), 2850; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17172850 - 30 Aug 2025

Viewed by 1640

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Many cancer survivors continue to experience persistent symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and depression. Exercise and increasing physical activity (PA) are recommended as methods that can help alleviate these symptoms. However, maintaining regular exercise can be difficult due to the challenge of [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Many cancer survivors continue to experience persistent symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and depression. Exercise and increasing physical activity (PA) are recommended as methods that can help alleviate these symptoms. However, maintaining regular exercise can be difficult due to the challenge of maintaining motivation. This secondary analysis uses data from a randomized controlled pilot study that examines the feasibility of the technology-enhanced combined exercise and other nonpharmacological interventions, such as the TEHEplus program, in managing symptoms. The program used mobile technologies and sent weekly physical performance reports to maintain engagement. In this study, we aimed to examine the impact of weekly physical performance reports on daily symptoms and PA and explored characteristics as moderators. Methods: This secondary analysis included participants who completed the 12-week TEHEplus program. Daily data of steps (PA), sleep duration, and symptoms (rated on a 4-point scale) were collected for 84 days. Mixed-effects and lagged regression models were used to assess the impact of weekly physical performance reports and the moderating effects of baseline characteristics. Results: Seventy-seven survivors of solid tumor cancer (mean age, 59.79, SD = 12.17) were analyzed. During this 84-day period, participants reported a reduction in low energy (B = −0.003, p = 0.004). Step counts increased by an average of 141 steps immediately after each weekly report (B = 140.857, p = 0.027). An increase of 5000 steps on the prior day was related to decreasing pain (B = −0.047, p < 0.001) and fatigue/low energy (B = −0.082, p < 0.001). Two additional hours of prior-night sleep worsened pain (B = 0.029, p = 0.001) and fatigue/low energy (B = 0.027, p = 0.002). Gender, employment, race, caregiver, and type of treatments moderate the relationship between daily PA, sleep (B = −0.131~0.078, p_s < 0.05). Conclusions: Weekly physical performance reports promoted PA, which possibly led to self-reported improvement of symptoms. Higher PA was associated with better self-report symptoms, but longer sleep duration was associated with worsened symptoms, suggesting the need for future studies. The moderating effects suggested that tailoring interventions to individual profiles may enhance the program’s effectiveness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Empowering Cancer Survivors: A Comprehensive Approach to Supportive Care Through Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Approaches Including Exercise, Physical Activity and Nutrition)

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26 pages, 2368 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Patient-Centered Perspectives on Suicidal Ideation: A Mixed-Methods Investigation in Gastrointestinal Cancer Care

by Avishek Choudhury, Yeganeh Shahsavar, Imtiaz Ahmed, M. Abdullah Al-Mamun and Safa Elkefi

Cancers 2025, 17(15), 2460; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17152460 - 25 Jul 2025

Viewed by 853

Abstract

Background: Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer patients face a four-fold higher suicide risk than the general US population. This study explores psychosocial aspects of GI cancer patient experiences, assessing suicidal ideation and behavior, mental distress during treatment phases, and psychosocial factors on mental health. Methods: [...] Read more.

Background: Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer patients face a four-fold higher suicide risk than the general US population. This study explores psychosocial aspects of GI cancer patient experiences, assessing suicidal ideation and behavior, mental distress during treatment phases, and psychosocial factors on mental health. Methods: A two-phase mixed-methods approach involved a web-based survey and follow-up interviews. Quantitative data analysis validated mental health and suicidal ideation constructs, and correlation analyses were performed. The patient journey was charted from diagnosis to treatment. Results: Two hundred and two individuals participated, with 76 from the rural Appalachian region and 78 undergoing treatments. Quantitative analysis showed a higher prevalence of passive suicidal ideation than active planning. The post-treatment recovery period was the most emotionally challenging. Qualitative data emphasized emotional support and vulnerability to isolation. Care quality concerns included individualized treatment plans and better communication. Patients also needed clear, comprehensive information about treatment and side effects. The in-depth interview with four GI cancer patients revealed a healthcare system prioritizing expedient treatment over comprehensive care, lacking formal psychological support. AI emerged as a promising avenue for enhancing patient understanding and treatment options. Conclusions: Our research advocates for a patient-centric model of care, enhanced by technology and empathetic communication. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Empowering Cancer Survivors: A Comprehensive Approach to Supportive Care Through Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Approaches Including Exercise, Physical Activity and Nutrition)

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20 pages, 327 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Comparison of In-Person and Telehealth Personalized Exercise Programs for Cancer Survivors: A Secondary Data Analysis

by Nada Lukkahatai, Gyumin Han, Chitchanok Benjasirisan, Jongmin Park, Hejingzi Monica Jia, Mingfang Li, Junxin Li, Jennifer Y. Sheng, Michael Carducci and Leorey N. Saligan

Cancers 2025, 17(15), 2432; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17152432 - 23 Jul 2025

Viewed by 2003

Abstract

Background/Objectives: This study evaluates the effects of a personalized exercise program on symptoms (pain, fatigue, sleep, cognitive function, physical function), resilience, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and compares the effectiveness of in-person versus telehealth delivery. Methods: A secondary data analysis [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: This study evaluates the effects of a personalized exercise program on symptoms (pain, fatigue, sleep, cognitive function, physical function), resilience, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and compares the effectiveness of in-person versus telehealth delivery. Methods: A secondary data analysis was conducted on two 12-week randomized control pilot studies for solid tumor cancer survivors. One study involved in-person home visits with telephone follow-ups. The second utilized weekly exercise recommendations via a smartphone app. Both studies had control participants who received the standard care. Symptoms, resilience, and HRQOL were measured at baseline and after 12 weeks. Paired t-tests were conducted for intervention effects and ANCOVA for group differences, adjusting for age and education. Results: The analysis included 75 program completers: 15 in-person (iHBE), 38 telehealth (TEHE), and 22 who received standard care. Those receiving exercise interventions reported improvements in physical (t = 3.0, p < 0.01) and mental fatigability (t = 3.1, p < 0.01) at program completion compared to baseline. Comparing the mean changes between participants receiving exercise interventions in-person and via telehealth, there were no significant differences between the two delivery methods except perceived visuo-perceptual cognitive difficulty (F = 3.55, p = 0.027), where telehealth showed a slight advantage. Conclusions: The study provides initial evidence of the effectiveness of a telehealth personalized exercise on fatigability and cognitive difficulty, suggesting it is a potential viable alternative to in-person intervention. Further research with a larger cohort is essential to ascertain the effects of these interventional modalities on cancer-related health outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Empowering Cancer Survivors: A Comprehensive Approach to Supportive Care Through Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Approaches Including Exercise, Physical Activity and Nutrition)

10 pages, 905 KB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Testicular Cancer on the Socio-Economic Health, Sexual Health, and Fertility of Survivors—A Questionnaire Based Survey

by M. Raheel Khan, Patrice Kearney Sheehan, Ashley Bazin, Christine Leonard, Lynda Corrigan and Ray McDermott

Cancers 2025, 17(11), 1826; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17111826 - 30 May 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1278

Abstract

Introduction: Testicular cancer (TC) is diagnosed at a young age and carries a remarkably high cure rate. Hence, there is a sizeable population living in the survivorship phase. Many studies have highlighted the plight of TC survivors as a result of the [...] Read more.

Introduction: Testicular cancer (TC) is diagnosed at a young age and carries a remarkably high cure rate. Hence, there is a sizeable population living in the survivorship phase. Many studies have highlighted the plight of TC survivors as a result of the late side-effects of the different therapeutic modalities used for the treatment of TC. This is the first study in Ireland to highlight the impact of TC on socio-economic health, sexual health, and fertility in survivors. Method: We performed a questionnaire-based survey, which was fully anonymised to encourage participation. Questionnaires were designed to measure the self-reported impact on social, sexual, and economic health on a five-point Likert scale (ranging from no effect to very significant effect), whereas any effect on fertility was investigated with questions regarding biological children before and after cancer with or without medical assistance. Results: A total of 83 TC survivors participated in the study. Almost half of our respondents revealed some effect on their performance at work and personal finances. Around one-third suffered an impact on career choice, job security, and their relationship with their partner. Regarding sexual health, the worst repercussions were noted on sex drive and body image perception, where close to half of the respondents reported at least some deterioration. Ejaculation and erectile function were affected in 30% of the participants. Of all participants, 17% reported issues with fertility, and the same proportion reported seeking medical help to conceive after diagnosis or treatment of TC. Conclusions: In conclusion, some TC survivors experience significant impact on their socio-economic and sexual health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Empowering Cancer Survivors: A Comprehensive Approach to Supportive Care Through Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Approaches Including Exercise, Physical Activity and Nutrition)

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Review

Jump to: Research, Other

17 pages, 676 KB

Open AccessReview

Understanding Contemporary Endometrial Cancer Survivorship Issues: Umbrella Review and Healthcare Professional Survey

by Tracey DiSipio, Jemma Turner, William Da Silva, Elizabeth Driscoll, Marta Preston, Krystel Tran, Nicla Varnier-Lui, Hui-Ling Yeoh, Dayajyot Kaur, Kathryn Alsop, Sandra C. Hayes, Monika Janda and Rosalind R. Spence

Cancers 2025, 17(16), 2696; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17162696 - 19 Aug 2025

Viewed by 1037

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Advances in endometrial cancer treatment, such as minimally invasive surgery and the introduction of targeted therapies, could influence survivorship and result in changes in issues experienced by survivors of endometrial cancer. To improve endometrial cancer survivorship, it is first necessary to [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Advances in endometrial cancer treatment, such as minimally invasive surgery and the introduction of targeted therapies, could influence survivorship and result in changes in issues experienced by survivors of endometrial cancer. To improve endometrial cancer survivorship, it is first necessary to understand it. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to describe contemporary endometrial cancer survivorship issues. Methods: This study involved an umbrella review and cross-sectional survey of healthcare professionals. The umbrella review involved searching Medline (2013–2023) to identify published reviews describing survivorship outcomes in endometrial cancer survivors. Articles were screened and survivorship outcomes were extracted. Healthcare professionals working with patients diagnosed with endometrial cancer were asked to (1) rate the relevance of each survivorship outcome identified in the review, and (2) list any additional issues considered of clinical relevance. Results: Following the screening of 201 articles (159 papers excluded: n = 1 duplicate; n = 158 ineligible), 42 review articles were included and 25 survivorship outcomes identified including physical health (e.g., fatigue, pain), fertility (e.g., parity), quality of life (e.g., cognitive wellbeing), treatment-related toxicities, and mental health outcomes (e.g., anxiety). The cross-sectional survey was completed by 37 healthcare professionals (two-thirds being medical oncologists or gynaecological oncologists) working across Australia and New Zealand, with outcomes rated as relevant by 30% (for cachexia) to 100% (for body weight/obesity and functional wellbeing of respondents. An additional 28 survivorship issues not identified in the review were reported by healthcare professionals. Conclusions: The current endometrial cancer survivorship literature is limited. The review, together with expert input from healthcare professionals, identified 53 survivorship issues. These findings will now inform development of a survey to explore the frequency, impact, and severity of survivorship issues from the perspective of endometrial cancer survivors, the results of which will guide the provision of supportive cancer care, in addition to guiding research and clinical practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Empowering Cancer Survivors: A Comprehensive Approach to Supportive Care Through Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Approaches Including Exercise, Physical Activity and Nutrition)

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15 pages, 835 KB

Open AccessReview

Optimising Exercise for Managing Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in People Diagnosed with Cancer

by Dhiaan Sidhu, Jodie Cochrane Wilkie, Jena Buchan and Kellie Toohey

Cancers 2025, 17(15), 2533; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17152533 - 31 Jul 2025

Viewed by 2550

Abstract

Background: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy is a common and debilitating side effect of cancer treatment. While exercise has shown promise in alleviating this burden, it remains underutilised in clinical practice due to the lack of accessible, clinician-friendly guidance. Aim: This review aimed to synthesise [...] Read more.

Background: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy is a common and debilitating side effect of cancer treatment. While exercise has shown promise in alleviating this burden, it remains underutilised in clinical practice due to the lack of accessible, clinician-friendly guidance. Aim: This review aimed to synthesise current evidence on exercise interventions for managing chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy and provide practical insights to support clinicians in integrating these approaches into patient care. Methods: A search was conducted across MEDLINE, CINAHL, and SPORTDiscus using keywords related to exercise and CIPN. Studies were included if they involved adults receiving neurotoxic chemotherapy and exercise-based interventions. Two authors independently screened studies and resolved conflicts with a third author. Study quality was assessed using the JBI Critical Appraisal Tools, and only studies meeting a minimum quality standard were included. A balanced sampling approach was employed. Data on study design, participant characteristics, interventions, and outcomes were extracted. Results: Eleven studies were included, covering various exercise modalities: multimodal (n = 5), yoga (n = 2), aerobic (n = 1), resistance (n = 1), balance (n = 1), and sensorimotor (n = 1). Exercise interventions, particularly multimodal exercise, significantly improved symptom severity, functionality, and quality of life (p < 0.05). The studies had high methodological quality, with randomised controlled trials scoring between 9/13 and 11/13, and quasi-experimental studies scoring 8/9 on JBI tools. Conclusions: This review highlights the significant benefits of exercise, especially multimodal exercise, for managing CIPN and provides guidance for integrating these strategies into clinical practice. Future research is needed to refine exercise prescriptions and develop standardised guidelines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Empowering Cancer Survivors: A Comprehensive Approach to Supportive Care Through Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Approaches Including Exercise, Physical Activity and Nutrition)

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Other

Jump to: Research, Review

22 pages, 713 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Associations Between Physical Activity, Fitness, Perceived Health, Chronic Disease and Mortality in Adult Survivors of Childhood and Young Adult Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: A Scoping Review

by Andres Marmol-Perez, Amy M. Berkman and Kirsten K. Ness

Cancers 2025, 17(22), 3625; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17223625 - 11 Nov 2025

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Abstract

Background/Objectives: Adult survivors of childhood and young adult Hodgkin’s lymphoma (HL) are at a higher risk than the general population for moderate to life-threatening chronic health conditions (CHCs) including cardiac, vascular, endocrine and pulmonary impairments. Regular physical activity (PA) can improve physical fitness, [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Adult survivors of childhood and young adult Hodgkin’s lymphoma (HL) are at a higher risk than the general population for moderate to life-threatening chronic health conditions (CHCs) including cardiac, vascular, endocrine and pulmonary impairments. Regular physical activity (PA) can improve physical fitness, reducing the risk of severity for CHCs. However, it is unclear whether adult survivors of HL experience the same benefits from PA as their peers. This scoping review aims to describe the associations between PA, physical fitness, perceived health, chronic disease and mortality in adult survivors of HL. In addition, body composition, autonomic dysfunction and associated treatment-related risk factors were included. Methods: MEDLINE (via PubMed), Web of Science, CINAHL and Cochrane databases were searched for potential studies that involved PA or physical fitness and outcomes such as body composition, autonomic dysfunction, associated treatment-related risk factors, associated chronic disease/mortality or perceived health. Results: A total of 2886 records were retrieved. After screening, 20 studies were included for review. In comparison to the general population, adult survivors of HL reported lower PA levels and had lower physical fitness. In addition, survivors were more likely to have abnormalities in body composition (i.e., reduced bone mineral density) and perceived health, autonomic dysfunctions and a higher risk of chronic disease and mortality than controls. An exposure to thoracic and neck radiotherapy seemed to be consistently associated with poor fitness (i.e., reduced muscle strength, lower cardiopulmonary fitness) and body composition, physical inactivity and autonomic dysfunctions. Conclusions: Interventional studies are needed to determine the maximum effective doses of PA regarding frequency, intensity, time, type, volume and progression (exercise prescription principles) that best optimize cardiovascular adaptations and health benefits in adult survivors of HL. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Empowering Cancer Survivors: A Comprehensive Approach to Supportive Care Through Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Approaches Including Exercise, Physical Activity and Nutrition)

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