Biopsychosocial Effects of Meditative Movement (Qigong/Tai Chi) on Breast Cancer Survivor’s Fatigue and Other Symptoms

Presenter:
Linda K. Larkey, Ph.D., CRTT
Professor, Arizona State University, College of Nursing and Health Innovation
Adjunct Faculty, Mayo Clinic

Presentation Overview:
Linda K. Larkey, Ph.D., CRTT, Professor in Arizona State University’s College of Nursing and Health Innovation and Adjunct Faculty with Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ, will review the broader evidence (from her own work and others’) on Meditative Movement (MM) effects on cancer survivorship, supporting the goals of her research underway in breast cancer survivors. Extended models proposing various biomolecular and neurophysiological markers as mechanisms of effects on physical and emotional symptoms, cognitive function, and body composition outcomes will be discussed.

Presenter Biography:
Dr. Larkey has a notable funded research record in multiple intervention approaches to promote cancer screenings in multiple clinic and community settings. Her more recently NIH-funded projects explore the biopsychosocial effects of Tai Chi Easy/Qigong on breast cancer survivor’s fatigue, cognitive function, and other symptoms. Biomarker assessments include cortisol and inflammatory cytokines, complemented with self-report and objective performance and cognitive function measures. Dr. Larkey’s more recent and current work nicely models Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research–desired grantspersonship and researcher behavior.