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Experiences of a mindfulness-based stress-reduction intervention among patients with cancer.

Cancer nursing
January 1, 2011
Pia Kvillemo et al. (2 authors)
Journal ArticleRandomized Controlled TrialResearch Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tHuman StudyClinical
Study Details

Study Goal

The researchers aimed to examine the perceived effects and experiences of mindfulness-based stress-reduction training among cancer patients.

Results Summary

Most participants reported positive effects such as increased calm, better sleep, reduced pain, and enhanced well-being, though a few experienced no effect. Both positive and negative views of specific exercises (meditation and yoga) were noted, with key program components being the nonjudgmental approach, group dynamics, and present-moment awareness.

Population

Patients with cancer (n = 18).

Effective Dosage

Not specified (8-week mindfulness-training course).

Duration

8 weeks.

Interactions

None mentioned.

Extracted Claims (9)
InterventionDirectionEndpointPopulationDosageImpactClaim #
mindfulness stress-reduction training
decrease
stress
patients with cancer
-
decrease
#1
mindfulness and mindfulness training
increase
psychological functioning
-
-
increase
#2
mindfulness program
increase
calm
participants
-
increased
#3
mindfulness program
increase
sleep quality
participants
-
enhanced
#4
mindfulness program
increase
energy
participants
-
more
#5
mindfulness program
decrease
physical pain
participants
-
less
#6
mindfulness program
increase
well-being
participants
-
increased
#7
mindfulness program
no change
-
a few participants
-
experienced no effect
#8
mindfulness programs
decrease
stress-related complaints
some patients with a cancer diagnosis
-
reducing
#9
Abstract

BACKGROUND: There is increasing recognition of mindfulness and mindfulness training as a way to decrease stress and increase psychological functioning. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to examine the perceived effects and experiences of mindfulness stress-reduction training as described by patients with cancer participating in a mindfulness-based stress-reduction training program. INTERVENTIONS/METHODS: The study is based on analysis of data collected in semistructured interviews of the participants (n = 18) after the completion of a mindfulness-meditation training program. The intervention consisted of an 8-week mindfulness-training course. RESULTS: Most participants expressed a number of perceived positive effects of participating in the mindfulness program including increased calm, enhanced sleep quality, more energy, less physical pain, and increased well-being. However, a few participants experienced no effect. Both negative and positive views of the specific meditation and yoga exercises included in the program were expressed. Components that were described as of particular importance, regarding the experience of participating in the program, were the nonjudgmental and accepting approach guiding the program and the instructors, the influence of the group process and sharing experiences with patients with similar experiences, and the emphasis on increased awareness of the present moment. CONCLUSION: This study gives support for the use of mindfulness programs in reducing stress-related complaints among some patients with a cancer diagnosis. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: The positive experiences of mindfulness training reported by patients with cancer call for further studies examining the possibilities and requirements for implementation of mindfulness programs in clinical practice.

Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)
Adaptation, PsychologicalAdultAnxietyBreast NeoplasmsDepressionFemaleHumansLymphomaMaleMeditationMiddle AgedPatient Education as TopicPsychotherapy, GroupQuality of LifeStress, PsychologicalTreatment Outcome
Study Links
Quality Scores
Safety85
Efficacy75/10
Quality65/10
Citation Metrics
Total Citations42
Citations/Year3.0
Relative Citation Ratio1.64
NIH Percentile68.2%
Research Impact Scores
APT Score0.75
Weight Score1.24
Normalized Score0.77
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