The effects of neurofeedback training on short-term memory and quality of life in women with breast cancer

Abstract

Background/Aims Breast cancer, one of the most common cancers among Iranian women, affects the physical, psychological and cognitive dimensions of patients' lives. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of neurofeedback training on short-term memory and quality of life in patients with breast cancer. Methods In a randomised, controlled pilot trial, a convenient sample of 20 Iranian women with breast cancer who had received chemotherapy and radiotherapy were randomly allocated to an intervention or control group. The intervention group received 4 weeks of neurofeedback training. Assessment tools in pre- and post-test sessions included the Wechsler short-term memory scale and SF-36 quality of life questionnaire. Data were analysed by a biostatistician blinded to the study. Results Short-term memory and quality of life scores improved significantly in the intervention group after neurofeedback training compared to the control group (P=0.001). Conclusions Findings indicate that neurofeedback training is an effective technique for improving short-term memory and quality of life alongside occupational therapy interventions in women after breast cancer treatment.