What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a systematic review of 35 randomized and nonrandomized studies to identify and describe interventions for improving or preventing cognitive impairments in adults with brain tumours.
What They Found
The review found that a range of pharmacological agents, including memantine and methylphenidate, and nonpharmacological interventions, such as cognitive rehabilitation and aerobic exercise, were associated with positive effects on cognition. These findings were based on an evaluation of 35 studies identified from a search of nearly 10,000 articles.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian patients with brain tumours experiencing cognitive impairments may find potential benefit from discussing various pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions with their healthcare teams. These identified strategies could offer avenues for managing neurocognitive challenges and improving quality of life.
Canadian Relevance
This systematic review did not include any studies with a specific Canadian connection or focus.
Study Limitations
Most of the included studies had methodological limitations and were judged to be at moderate-to-high risk of bias, limiting the certainty of the findings.