The Case for Oncology Yoga
Oncology Yoga is not just beneficial—it’s essential. It supports cancer patients and survivors through every phase of their journey and plays a critical role in long-term health. Here are four compelling reasons why:
#1. Cancer Survivorship Is Widespread and Growing
Globally, approximately 20 million new cancer cases were diagnosed in 2022; projections suggest this may surge to 35 million annually by 2050—a 75% increase driven by aging populations and lifestyle risk factors. Source
In the U.S. alone, nearly 18.6 million individuals were living as cancer survivors as of May 2025 (about 5.4% of the population), with estimates rising to 26 million by 2040. Source
Lifetime risk of a cancer diagnosis now stands at about 39%. Source
#2. Managing Treatment Side Effects is Crucial
Cancer treatments save lives, but they also create significant physical and emotional side effects—fatigue, anxiety, lymphedema, constipation, and limited mobility, to name a few. These side effects can affect:
- Daily functioning
- Adherence to treatment protocols
- Overall treatment outcomes
- Risk of recurrence and secondary conditions
Modern oncology now emphasizes self-management and survivorship care, recognizing that patients who take an active role in their recovery experience better outcomes.
#3. Survivorship Guidelines Recommend Movement
The American Cancer Society and American Institute for Cancer Research recommend survivors follow general public guidelines:
- 150 minutes/week of moderate-intensity activity (like brisk walking or yoga), or
- 75 minutes/week of vigorous activity
- Plus, strength training at least twice a week
Yet data show only 15.9% of U.S. survivors meet both aerobic and strength guidelines. Source.
Other studies estimate only 17–58% of survivors adhere to exercise recommendations. Source
Our goal: support survivors in achieving 150 minutes of yoga weekly, year-round—as a sustainable foundation for lifelong wellness.
#4. Yoga’s Therapeutic Impact Is Evidence-Based
A robust and growing body of scientific studies shows that yoga helps cancer survivors by:
- Increasing strength, flexibility, balance, and mobility
- Improving metabolic health (blood sugar, cholesterol, weight management)
- Enhancing emotional health (reducing anxiety, depression; improving sleep, fatigue, and quality of life)
- Supporting immune function
Crucially, meeting activity guidelines—including yoga—has been linked to 35% lower mortality risk among survivors (cancer.org and ascopubs.org). Emerging research (e.g., the COLON exercise “prescription” trial) even suggests structured physical activity can rival the efficacy of drug treatments in reducing recurrence by ~28% and death by ~37% (thetimes.co.uk).
In Summary:
-📈 Incidence & Survivorship: Projected to climb sharply—20M new cases → 35M by 2050 globally; U.S. survivors nearing 26M by 2040.
-⚠️ Activity Gaps: Most survivors remain inactive—only ~16% meet exercise benchmarks.
-🧘 Yoga Interventions: Proven to improve physical, mental, and survival outcomes.