The purpose of this study was to determine if occupational therapy informed yoga could decrease barriers to occupational engagement in African American breast cancer survivors.

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Breast cancer disproportionately affects African American women as illustrated by a 42% higher death rate and an 11% lower 5-year survival rate when compared to Caucasian women. Reasons for these disparities include biological and structural barriers to higher survival rates.

Regular physical activity and resistance training are recommended to support improved survivorship. To date, few efforts have targeted African American survivors who may experience greater survivorship challenges than Caucasians.

Yoga is a safe and effective means for breast cancer survivors to exercise and gain positive physical and psychosocial outcomes. Only two studies, 10 years apart, have provided evidence about the efficacy of yoga for African American breast cancer survivors.

Inclusion Criteria:

• African American race
• Breast Cancer survivor
• No medical restrictions on activity

Exclusion Criteria:

• Race other than African American
• No history of breast cancer
• Medical restrictions on activity