Lengacher, C.A., Johnson-Mallard, V., Post-White, J., Moscoso, M.S., Jacobsen, P.B., Klein, T.W., … Kip, K.E. (2009). Randomized controlled trial of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) for survivors of breast cancer. Psycho-Oncology, 18, 1261–1272.
To determine whether, compared to usual care, a mindfulness-based stress-reduction (MBSR) intervention involving breast cancer (BC) survivors is efficacious in improving psychological and physical status
Patients were randomized into one of two arms: the group receiving MBSR for BC patients (MBSR (BC)) and the group receiving usual care. Assignment to group was random and stratified by stage of cancer and treatment received; if desired, members of the usual-care group were wait-listed to receive the MBSR (BC) intervention. Assessments were completed at an initial baseline orientation and within two weeks of the end of the six-week intervention or control period. Data collectors were blinded to treatment assignment. The MBSR (BC) group received six weekly two-hour sessions led by a single trained psychologist. Class size was 4–8. Subjects received a training manual and four audiotapes to support home meditation practices. Members of the MBSR (BC) group kept a daily diary. Participants completed various activities during the six-week period. The intervention comprised three specific components:
Transition phase
Randomized controlled trial
Compared to usual care, the six-week MBSR (BC) program for BC survivors, within 18 months of treatment, resulted in significant improvements in psychological status and quality of life.
The symptoms this study addressed continue to be of great concern to patients with cancer. Nurses must know how to help patients with these symptoms during and after treatment. Nurses should explore alternative ways to educate patients about interventions that can improve outcomes.