From Ancient Practices to Modern Oncology: Health Benefits of Tai Chi and Qigong for Breast, Lung, and Colorectal Cancer Patients

Abstract

Tai Chi and Qigong, ancient practices from Traditional Chinese Medicine, have gained attention for their therapeutic potential in cancer management. This article explores their historical origins—Tai Chi from 17th-century martial arts in China and Qigong from over 2,000 years of meditative and energetic traditions—and general health benefits, including improved balance, reduced inflammation, and enhanced psychological well-being. Focusing on cancer patients, particularly those with breast, lung, and colorectal malignancies, we review 15 studies comprising meta-analyses, RCTs, and observational trials. Key findings indicate that Tai Chi and Baduanjin improve cognitive function, shoulder mobility, lung capacity, quality of life, and reduce fatigue, anxiety, depression, lymphedema, and inflammation markers. For instance, meta-analyses show significant enhancements in sleep and activity tolerance post-surgery, with no reported adverse events. However, limitations such as small sample sizes and evidence quality necessitate further high-quality research. These practices offer safe, non-pharmacological adjuncts to conventional cancer care, promoting holistic recovery.

Keywords: Tai Chi, Qigong, Traditional Chinese Medicine, cancer patients, breast cancer, lung cancer, cancer-related fatigue, quality of life, systematic review, meta-analysis, randomized controlled trial, inflammation, psychological outcomes, physical function, supportive care

Introduction

Tai Chi, also known as Taijiquan, is a mind-body practice rooted in Chinese martial arts traditions, with its documented history emerging primarily in the 17th century. Originating from villages such as Chen Village in Henan Province, it evolved from influences including Taoist and Buddhist monastery practices at sites like Wudang and Shaolin. Historical accounts suggest that figures like Chen Wangting (1580–1660) formalized early forms, drawing from martial arts treatises and styles like Taizu changquan. While legends attribute its creation to the Taoist monk Zhang Sanfeng in the 12th century, these claims lack substantive evidence and appear in records no earlier than the 17th century. Over time, Tai Chi diversified into major styles (Chen, Yang, Wu, Sun, and Wu/Hao), with standardization efforts in the 20th century, including simplified forms for public health by the Chinese government in 1956. In 2020, it was recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity [1].

Qigong, an even older practice, traces its origins back more than 2,000 years in ancient Chinese culture, encompassing meditative, breathing, and movement exercises aimed at cultivating and circulating "qi" (vital energy). It integrated elements from traditional Chinese medicine for health maintenance, Confucianism for moral and longevity benefits, Taoism and Buddhism for meditation, and martial arts for self-defense. Early forms included "daoyin" (guiding and pulling exercises) and "internal alchemy." Transmission was traditionally oral and master-to-student. In the mid-20th century, the Chinese government systematized Qigong under a scientific framework, coining the term in 1949 and promoting it for public health during the post-Cultural Revolution era. By the 1990s, it had millions of practitioners, though government regulations in 1999 restricted certain groups to emphasize health-focused applications [2].

In general, Tai Chi and Qigong offer multifaceted health benefits, supported by numerous systematic reviews and meta-analyses. These practices enhance physical function, including balance, flexibility, and cardiovascular health, while also improving psychological well-being. For instance, Tai Chi demonstrates excellent evidence for preventing falls in older adults, alleviating symptoms of osteoarthritis and Parkinson's disease, and aiding rehabilitation for chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease and stroke [3-4]. Qigong and Tai Chi together have been shown to reduce blood pressure, improve lipid profiles, and boost immune responses, potentially lowering inflammation markers [5-7]. Psychologically, they alleviate anxiety, depression, and fatigue, enhance sleep quality, and promote cognitive function across age groups, including adolescents and older adults [8-10]. Overall, these low-impact exercises are safe, feasible for diverse populations, and contribute to holistic well-being, with effects on quality of life and mood regulation [11].

Several books and many articles have been written on the health benefits of tai chi and qigong in recent years. These two tools of Traditional Chinese Medicine [TCM] have been used to treat a wide range of ailments with a great deal of success. One feature that these tools have in common is that they both strengthen the body’s immune system, which makes it possible to ward off illness before it occurs, and to treat illnesses effectively in cases where a disease or ailment already exists [12-29].

Artificial intelligence has been used in medical research increasingly in recent years. It has shown to be an efficient and effective tool in both research and treatment [30-37]. The present study uses it to retrieve and summarize data.

Methodology

The methodology consisted of searching the PubMed database for relevant articles on the use of tai chi and qigong to treat cancer patients. Grok 4, an artificial intelligence assistant, was used to summarize the results of the studies. The author then edited the Grok summaries.

The Studies

Recent research has increasingly examined Tai Chi and Qigong as adjunctive therapies for cancer patients, particularly those with breast, lung, and colorectal cancers. These studies, often randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses, highlight their potential to mitigate treatment side effects, improve physical function, and enhance psychological outcomes.

Several meta-analyses focus on breast cancer survivors. Chen et al. [38] conducted a systematic review of 16 RCTs involving 1247 patients, finding that Tai Chi and Baduanjin significantly improved cognitive function, shoulder joint mobility, sleep quality, and overall quality of life while reducing anxiety, depression, and fatigue compared to usual care. Subgroup analyses emphasized benefits in Chinese populations and interventions lasting over 8 weeks, though limitations include small sample sizes and evidence quality. Similarly, Meng et al.'s updated meta-analysis on Qigong for women with breast cancer reported positive effects on fatigue, mood, and quality of life, though detailed outcomes were not fully accessible in retrieved data.[39]. A protocol by Li et al. [40] outlines a planned meta-analysis evaluating Qigong, Tai Chi, acupuncture, and Tuina for cancer-related fatigue in breast cancer patients, anticipating improvements in fatigue scales and safety assessments.

Pilot and observational studies provide supportive evidence. Fong et al.'s 2014 pilot RCT with 23 breast cancer survivors showed that a short Qigong session reduced upper limb lymphedema and improved blood flow velocity, suggesting temporary relief from circulatory issues post-mastectomy [41]. In a 2018 observational study, Fong et al. [42] compared 40 Qigong-practicing breast cancer survivors to non-practitioners and healthy controls, finding enhanced balance performance and self-efficacy in the Qigong group, though no differences in bone mineral density or falls. Soltero et al.'s pilot study combined Latin dance with Qigong/Tai Chi, noting improvements in physical activity and body composition among breast cancer survivors [43].  Yao et al.'s preliminary RCT demonstrated that evidence-based Tai Chi reduced the fatigue-sleep disturbance-depression cluster in breast cancer patients.[44].  Zhang et al. [45] evaluated a nurse-led mindfulness-based Tai Chi program, showing effectiveness in promoting posttraumatic growth and reducing stress and anxiety in survivors. Irwin et al. [46] compared Tai Chi to cognitive behavioral therapy in breast cancer survivors with insomnia, revealing reversals in inflammation markers at systemic, cellular, and genomic levels.  Ee et al. [47] reviewed lifestyle interventions including Tai Chi and Qigong for fatigue and sleep disturbances, indicating benefits in integrative oncology.

For other cancers, Kuo et al.'s meta-analysis of RCTs assessed Baduanjin Qigong's clinical effects on general cancer patients, suggesting improvements in physical and psychological outcomes, though full details were unavailable.[48]. Wu et al.'s 2025 meta-analysis of nine RCTs with 795 lung cancer patients post-surgery found Baduanjin enhanced activity tolerance, lung function (e.g., FEV1 and FVC), quality of life, and reduced anxiety and depression without adverse events.[49]. Lu et al. examined Baduanjin in colorectal cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, reporting reduced cancer-related fatigue [50]. Oh et al.'s RCT on medical Qigong in 81 mixed cancer patients showed improvements in cognitive function, quality of life, and reduced inflammation (C-reactive protein) [51]. Schlecht et al.'s observational study of a video-based intervention incorporating Qigong elements in 109 cancer patients noted sustained reductions in fear of progression, depression, and fatigue at three-month follow-up [52].

Collectively, these studies underscore Tai Chi and Qigong's role in supportive cancer care, though heterogeneity, small samples, and varying intervention durations call for more robust RCTs.

Summary of Studies

The effects of Tai Chi and Baduanjin on breast cancer patients: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials [38]

• Study design: Systematic review and meta-analysis of 16 RCTs.
• Participant details: 1,247 patients (all female); age mean/range varied (e.g., 37-60 years); breast cancer stages not uniformly specified.
• Intervention protocols: Tai Chi and Baduanjin; durations 5-24 weeks; frequencies 20-90 min/week.
• Key findings with statistical data: Improved cognitive function (SMD 1.00, 95% CI 0.66-1.35, p<0.00001); shoulder function (SMD 7.34, 95% CI 6.32-8.35, p<0.00001); reduced anxiety (SMD -2.22, 95% CI -3.15--1.29, p<0.00001); depression (SMD -1.44, 95% CI -2.46--0.41, p=0.006); fatigue (SMD -1.02, 95% CI -1.52--0.53, p<0.0001); sleep quality (SMD -1.44, 95% CI -2.57--0.31, p=0.01); QOL (SMD 6.94, 95% CI 5.60-8.27, p<0.00001).
• Potential mechanisms for medical professionals: Physiological: enhanced neural function, joint mobility, reduced inflammation; psychological: stress reduction via mindfulness.
• Benefits for Tai Chi/Qigong enthusiasts: Promotes Qi cultivation through mindful movement for holistic recovery.
• Strengths: Comprehensive outcomes; subgroup analyses; no publication bias.
• Limitations: High heterogeneity; low quality RCTs; small samples.
• Clinical recommendations: Recommend Tai Chi/Baduanjin as complementary therapy for symptom management in breast cancer; longer interventions (>8 weeks) preferred.

Qigong for women with breast cancer: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis [39]

• Study design: Systematic review/meta-analysis of 17 RCTs.
• Participant details: 1,236 women; age/range not specified; breast cancer.
• Intervention protocols: Qigong (incl. Tai Chi); 10 days-6 months.
• Key findings with statistical data: Improved QOL (SMD 0.65, 95% CI 0.23-1.08, p=0.002); depression (SMD -0.32, 95% CI -0.59--0.04, p=0.02); anxiety (SMD -0.71, 95% CI -1.32--0.10, p=0.02).
• Potential mechanisms for medical professionals: Physiological: cytokine reduction; psychological: mood improvement.
• Benefits for Tai Chi/Qigong enthusiasts: Qi cultivation for emotional relief.
• Strengths: Updated review; large sample.
• Limitations: Low quality trials; heterogeneity.
• Clinical recommendations: Qigong to improve QOL, relieve depression/anxiety in breast cancer.

Effects of Qigong, Tai Chi, acupuncture, and Tuina on cancer-related fatigue for breast cancer patients: A protocol of systematic review and meta-analysis [40]

• Study design: Protocol for systematic review/meta-analysis of RCTs.
• Participant details: Breast cancer patients with CRF; no specifics (protocol).
• Intervention protocols: Qigong/Tai Chi; durations/frequencies to be analyzed.
• Key findings with statistical data: No results (protocol); aims CRF assessment.
• Potential mechanisms for medical professionals: Physiological: immune enhancement; psychological: stress reduction.
• Benefits for Tai Chi/Qigong enthusiasts: Qi regulation for fatigue.
• Strengths: Broad TCM scope; GRADE evaluation.
• Limitations: No results; potential heterogeneity.
• Clinical recommendations: Await results; consider Qigong/Tai Chi for CRF.

Effects of qigong exercise on upper limb lymphedema and blood flow in survivors of breast cancer: a pilot study [41]

• Study design: Single-blinded non-randomized controlled pilot trial.
• Participant details: 23 women; mean age 58.3±10.1 (qigong), 53.8±4.2 (control); all female; post-mastectomy with lymphedema (>2cm limb difference).
• Intervention protocols: 18 Forms Tai Chi Internal Qigong; 6 min/session; single session (experience 0.9±0.2 years, 3x/week, 1 hour).
• Key findings with statistical data: Limb circumferences reduced 2.7-4.1% (p<0.05); RI -33.3% (p=0.002); SV +36.8% (p=0.009); DV +54.5% (p=0.001); between-group p<0.001 for RI/DV.
• Potential mechanisms for medical professionals: Physiological: improved lymphatic/blood flow via breathing/movement.
• Benefits for Tai Chi/Qigong enthusiasts: Enhances Qi for lymphedema relief.
• Strengths: First on qigong for lymphedema flow; blinded assessor.
• Limitations: Small n; non-randomized; short-term; circumference measure.
• Clinical recommendations: Qigong for lymphedema in breast survivors; test long-term.

Bone Mineral Density, Balance Performance, Balance Self-Efficacy, and Falls in Breast Cancer Survivors With and Without Qigong Training: An Observational Study [42]

• Study design: Cross-sectional comparative study.
• Participant details: 93 (40 qigong, 17 no, 36 healthy); age 52.8-56.9; female; post-treatment >3 months.
• Intervention protocols: 18-form Tai Chi Qigong; >3 months; weekly 2-hour sessions.
• Key findings with statistical data: No BMD difference (p>0.05); better balance (27.3%, p=0.025); self-efficacy (p=0.006); similar falls.
• Potential mechanisms for medical professionals: Physiological: vestibular improvement; psychological: confidence.
• Benefits for Tai Chi/Qigong enthusiasts: Qi for balance.
• Strengths: Multi-group.
• Limitations: Cross-sectional; no causality.
• Clinical recommendations: Qigong for balance/self-efficacy in survivors.

Latin dance and Qigong/Tai Chi effects on physical activity and body composition in breast cancer survivors: A pilot study [43]

• Study design: Pilot RCT comparing Latin dance, Qigong/Tai Chi, control.
• Participant details: 45 women; mean age 52 (SD 9.5); all female; stages I-III.
• Intervention protocols: Qigong/Tai Chi Easy; 12 weeks; 60 min/week.
• Key findings with statistical data: Increased PA (p=0.04); improved body composition (p=0.05, d=0.45); similar to dance.
• Potential mechanisms for medical professionals: Physiological: enhanced metabolism; psychological: adherence via enjoyment.
• Benefits for Tai Chi/Qigong enthusiasts: Qi for activity/body benefits.
• Strengths: Comparative; objective measures.
• Limitations: Small n; pilot; short-term.
• Clinical recommendations: Qigong/Tai Chi for PA/body composition in survivors.

The effect of an evidence-based Tai chi intervention on the fatigue-sleep disturbance-depression symptom cluster in breast cancer patients: A preliminary randomised controlled trial [44]

• Study design: Preliminary RCT with Tai Chi vs. control.
• Participant details: 72 women; age not specified; all female; stages I-III.
• Intervention protocols: Evidence-based Tai Chi; 8 weeks; 2x/week, 60 min/session.
• Key findings with statistical data: Reduced fatigue (p<0.001); sleep disturbance (p<0.001); depression (p=0.006); improved QOL (p=0.032).
• Potential mechanisms for medical professionals: Physiological: autonomic regulation; psychological: mindfulness.
• Benefits for Tai Chi/Qigong enthusiasts: Qi for symptom cluster relief.
• Strengths: Cluster focus; RCT.
• Limitations: Small n; preliminary; no long-term.
• Clinical recommendations: Tai Chi adjunct for FSDSC in breast cancer.

Effectiveness of a nurse-led Mindfulness-based Tai Chi Chuan (MTCC) program on Posttraumatic Growth and perceived stress and anxiety of breast cancer survivors [45]

• Study design: RCT with MTCC vs. control.
• Participant details: 59 women (58 analyzed); age not specified; all female; stages I-III, post-treatment <1 year.
• Intervention protocols: MTCC; 8 weeks; 2x/week, 60 min/session.
• Key findings with statistical data: Improved PTG (F=374.98, p<0.000, η²=0.11); reduced stress (F=55.22, p<0.000, η²=0.03); anxiety (F=148.92, p<0.000, η²=0.05).
• Potential mechanisms for medical professionals: Psychological: mindfulness for resilience; physiological: stress modulation.
• Benefits for Tai Chi/Qigong enthusiasts: Qi with mindfulness for growth.
• Strengths: Nurse-led; high compliance.
• Limitations: Single site; subjective measures.
• Clinical recommendations: MTCC for PTG, stress/anxiety in survivors.

Tai Chi compared with cognitive behavioral therapy and the reversal of systemic, cellular and genomic markers of inflammation in breast cancer survivors with insomnia: A randomized clinical trial [46]

• Study design: RCT comparing Tai Chi, CBT-I, control.
• Participant details: 90 women; mean age 57.2 (SD 9.6); all female; stages I-III, post-treatment with insomnia.
• Intervention protocols: Tai Chi; 12 weeks; 60 min/week group sessions.
• Key findings with statistical data: Reduced insomnia (p=0.02, d=0.54); CRP (p=0.03); pro-inflammatory genes (p=0.01); comparable to CBT-I.
• Potential mechanisms for medical professionals: Physiological: reduced inflammation via autonomic regulation; psychological: relaxation for sleep.
• Benefits for Tai Chi/Qigong enthusiasts: Qi flow for sleep/immune balance.
• Strengths: Biomarkers; active comparator; robust design.
• Limitations: Moderate n; short-term; no long-term.
• Clinical recommendations: Tai Chi alternative to CBT-I for insomnia/inflammation in survivors.

Lifestyle and integrative oncology interventions for cancer-related fatigue and sleep disturbances [47]

• Study design: Narrative review.
• Participant details: Cancer survivors (incl. breast); no specifics.
• Intervention protocols: Exercise, yoga, Tai Chi/Qigong; varied.
• Key findings with statistical data: Strong for aerobic/strength exercise on fatigue; yoga, massage, acupuncture, Tai Chi/Qigong favorable for fatigue; mixed for sleep (exercise modest).
• Potential mechanisms for medical professionals: Physiological: reduced inflammation; psychological: stress relief.
• Benefits for Tai Chi/Qigong enthusiasts: Qi for fatigue/sleep.
• Strengths: Broad synthesis.
• Limitations: Narrative; insufficient diet/supplement data.
• Clinical recommendations: Recommend exercise, Tai Chi/Qigong for fatigue/sleep in breast survivors.

Clinical Effects of Baduanjin Qigong Exercise on Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on Randomized Controlled Trials [48]

• Study design: Systematic review and meta-analysis of 10 RCTs.
• Participant details: Aggregate n=640 (includes breast cancer, female predominant); age/sex/stage not specified per study.
• Intervention protocols: Baduanjin Qigong; durations varied; frequencies not uniform.
• Key findings with statistical data: Reduced CRF (OR 0.27, 95% CI 0.17-0.42, p<0.00001); improved QOL (SMD 10.57, 95% CI 7.82-13.32); sleep quality (SMD -1.28, 95% CI -2.01--0.55, p<0.00001).
• Potential mechanisms for medical professionals: Physiological: improved immunity, reduced inflammation; psychological: enhanced well-being.
• Benefits for Tai Chi/Qigong enthusiasts: Baduanjin supports Qi balance for fatigue relief.
• Strengths: First meta on Baduanjin for cancer; robust analysis.
• Limitations: Mixed cancers; heterogeneity; low quality studies.
• Clinical recommendations: Baduanjin as add-on for CRF, QOL in breast cancer; needs more RCTs.

The effect of Baduanjin on postoperative activity tolerance, lung function and negative emotions in patients with lung cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis [49]

• Study design: Systematic review and meta-analysis of 9 RCTs.
• Participant details: 795 lung cancer patients (post-surgery); age mean/range, sex, stage not detailed (not breast cancer).
• Intervention protocols: Baduanjin; durations varied.
• Key findings with statistical data: Improved 6-min walk (MD 22.93, 95% CI 10.60-35.26, p=0.0003); FEV1 (MD 0.27, 95% CI 0.11-0.44, p=0.001); FVC (MD 0.34, 95% CI 0.14-0.54, p=0.0008); FACT-L (MD 20.46, 95% CI 9.48-31.44, p=0.0003); anxiety (MD -6.68, 95% CI -10.05--3.32, p=0.0001); depression (MD -6.15, 95% CI -7.83--4.46, p<0.00001).
• Potential mechanisms for medical professionals: Physiological: enhanced cardiopulmonary function; psychological: reduced negative emotions.
• Benefits for Tai Chi/Qigong enthusiasts: Qi cultivation for recovery.
• Strengths: Comprehensive databases; GRADE assessment.
• Limitations: Low quality evidence; high heterogeneity; lung cancer focus.
• Clinical recommendations: Explore Baduanjin for activity, emotions in breast cancer by analogy; needs breast-specific studies.

Effect of Baduanjin Qigong Exercise on Cancer-Related Fatigue in Patients with Colorectal Cancer Undergoing Chemotherapy: A Randomized Controlled Trial [50]

• Study design: RCT with Baduanjin vs. routine care.
• Participant details: 90 patients (colorectal cancer); age/range not specified; sex mixed.
• Intervention protocols: Baduanjin; durations not specified.
• Key findings with statistical data: Reduced CRF (p<0.01 at 24 weeks); improved KPS (p<0.01); PSQI (p<0.01).
• Potential mechanisms for medical professionals: Physiological: immunity enhancement; psychological: fatigue relief.
• Benefits for Tai Chi/Qigong enthusiasts: Qi for CRF management.
• Strengths: RCT; long-term assessment.
• Limitations: Colorectal focus; small n.
• Clinical recommendations: Baduanjin for CRF in breast by analogy; needs specific studies.

Effect of medical Qigong on cognitive function, quality of life, and a biomarker of inflammation in cancer patients: a randomized controlled trial [51]

• Study design: RCT with medical Qigong vs. control.
• Participant details: 81 patients (mixed cancers, incl. breast); age/range not specified; sex mixed.
• Intervention protocols: Medical Qigong; 10 weeks; frequency not detailed.
• Key findings with statistical data: Improved cognitive function (p=0.014); QOL (MD 12.66, p<0.001); reduced CRP (MD -0.72, p=0.042).
• Potential mechanisms for medical professionals: Physiological: reduced inflammation; psychological: improved QOL.
• Benefits for Tai Chi/Qigong enthusiasts: Qi for cognitive/QOL enhancement.
• Strengths: RCT; biomarker inclusion.
• Limitations: Small n; self-report CF; mixed cancers.
• Clinical recommendations: Medical Qigong for CF, QOL in breast cancer.

Changes of Symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, and Fatigue in Cancer Patients 3 Months after a Video-Based Intervention [52]

• Study design: Prospective observational secondary analysis from RCT.
• Participant details: 109 patients (30% breast); mean age 56.1 (SD 12.6); 68% female; mixed stages.
• Intervention protocols: Video-based (incl. qigong); 4 weeks; biweekly videos.
• Key findings with statistical data: Reduced fear (SES -0.23, p<0.001); depression (SES -0.27, p=0.001); fatigue (SES -0.24, p=0.01).
• Potential mechanisms for medical professionals: Psychological: coping via psychoeducation/MBT; physiological: activation.
• Benefits for Tai Chi/Qigong enthusiasts: Qi via qigong for symptom reduction.
• Strengths: Diverse cancers; follow-up.
• Limitations: No control; dropout bias.
• Clinical recommendations: Video-qigong for symptoms in breast cancer.

Conflict of Interest

There are no conflicts of interest to report.

Funding

This study was not funded.

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