The effectiveness of Dragon Boat racing on body image and traumatic symptoms of breast cancer patients

Objective The present study investigated the effectiveness of a Dragon Boat training program in women with breast cancer body image and traumatic distress processing. Methods 29 breast cancer patients (M(SD) age= 51 (7.41)) voluntarily participated in a physical activity program. Seventeen (Intervention Group) enrolled in a Dragon Boat racing program, while 12 (the Control Group) individually performed alternative physical activities. Before and after the intervention, patients completed the Body Image Scale (BIS) and the Impact of Event Scale - Revised (IES-R). Results The Intervention Group reported a decrease in Body Image negative perception (Pillai's trace =.352, F(1,27) = 14.111, p =.001; partial.2 =.951) and in traumatic symptoms (Pillai's trace =.283, F(1,27) = 10.682, p =.003; partial.2 =.883). Conclusions Authors discuss the role of Dragon Boat racing in improving positive body image after the experience of breast cancer.