Effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions in managing dyspnea among cancer patients: A systematic review

DOI: https://doi.org/10.33024/minh.v8i9.1738

Authors

  • Feri Atmajaya Universitas Indonesia
  • Allenidekania Allenidekania Universitas Indonesia
  • Yati Afiyanti Universitas Indonesia
  • Dewi Gayatri Universitas Indonesia

Cancer Dyspnea Non-pharmacological Interventions

Abstract

Background: The management of dyspnea in cancer patients still faces various challenges. Non-pharmacological interventions are increasingly recognized as effective, potentially cost-effective, and effective approaches to managing this symptom.

Purpose: To identify, evaluate, and analyze evidence regarding the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions in managing dyspnea in cancer patients.

Method: This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines and conducted a literature search across five databases (Sage Journals, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Springerlink, and Google Scholar). Inclusion criteria included English-language articles published between 2015 and 2025, with a randomized controlled trial (RCT) or cohort study design. From 59,225 articles identified, 11 studies met the inclusion criteria for analysis.

Results: A total of 1,369 cancer patients were analyzed across 10 RCTs and one cohort study. Various non-pharmacological interventions proven effective in managing dyspnea include Tai Chi, aerobic exercise, Respiratory Distress Symptom Intervention (RDSI), Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT), home-based education programs, and acupuncture.

Conclusion: Non-pharmacological interventions can be an important component in the management of dyspnea in cancer patients, significantly contributing to symptom reduction and overall patient well-being.

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Author Biographies

  • Feri Atmajaya, Universitas Indonesia

    Feri Atmajaya is a postgraduate student of nursing majoring in Oncology at the University of Indonesia and an active oncology clinician at Mohammad Hoesin Hospital in Palembang. He is also active in the Indonesian Oncology Nurses Assosiation (IONA) or HIMPONI.

  • Allenidekania Allenidekania, Universitas Indonesia

    Dr. Allenidekania, S.Kp., M.Sc. is a lecturer and researcher in the Faculty of Nursing, University of Indonesia. She has expertise in pediatric oncology, symptom management, quality of life, and family empowerment in managing chronic diseases. In addition, she is also active as a national trainer of pediatric nursing and national evaluator for higher health education (LAMPTKes) and in the Indonesian Pediatric Nurses Association or IPANI.

  • Yati Afiyanti, Universitas Indonesia

    Prof. Dr. Yati Afiyanti, SKp., MN is a professor and senior researcher at the Faculty of Nursing, University of Indonesia, specializing in women's health, pregnancy, gynecological cancer, and qualitative research. She focuses on sexual health promotion and the development of supportive care for gynecological cancer patients in Indonesia. She is also an active publisher of articles in reputable journals and contributes to scientific conferences.

  • Dewi Gayatri, Universitas Indonesia

    Dr. Dewi Gayatri, S.Kp., M.Kes. is a lecturer and researcher in the Faculty of Nursing, University of Indonesia. She has expertise in research instrument development, wound care, oncology nursing, spirituality, and palliative care, and active in the Indonesian National Nurses Association and the Oncology Nursing College.

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Published

2025-11-27

Issue

Vol. 8 No. 9 (2025): Volume 8 Number 9

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Articles

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Copyright (c) 2025 Feri Atmajaya, Allenidekania Allenidekania, Yati Afiyanti, Dewi Gayatri

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How to Cite

Effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions in managing dyspnea among cancer patients: A systematic review. (2025). MIN, 8(9), 1145-1157. https://doi.org/10.33024/minh.v8i9.1738