To summarize evidence for physical activity management in cancer patients based on the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) approach for evidence synthesis in health care, providing a scientific basis for the clinical standardization of physical activity management in cancer patients.

Literature was searched according to the "6S" pyramid model of evidence, using BMJ Best Practice, UpToDate, JBI Evidence-Based Practice Database, Cochrane Library, global guideline websites, professional cancer association websites, and relevant Chinese and English databases for all evidence regarding physical activity in cancer patients. The search covered the period from February 13, 2018, to February 13, 2023. Guided by the JBI approach for evidence synthesis, two researchers independently evaluated the quality of the literature and extracted relevant evidence in accordance with clinical scenarios.

Thirty articles were included, comprising two guidelines, three expert consensuses, one evidence summary, 21 systematic reviews, and three randomized controlled trials. A total of 29 best evidence points were summarized in six aspects: benefits of physical activity, physically active people, pre-activity assessment, implementation of physical activity programs, safety monitoring of physical activity, and ongoing support strategies.

This study supplements and updates 15 pieces of evidence based on existing evidence, ultimately forming a best evidence summary for the management of physical activity in cancer patients, providing evidence-based support for clinical management. Most evidence comes from international studies. It is recommended that Chinese researchers consider the activity ability and willingness of cancer patients when applying these findings in future research, and consider the specific clinical context, or conduct foundational research to further validate the evidence, to comprehensively improve the quality of life of cancer patients.

Neoplasms; Physical activity; Evidence-based nursing; Evidence summary