Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) in cancer care reduce psychological distress, sleep disturbance, and fatigue, and promote quality of life and spirituality. Evidence suggests MBIs may also influence immune function, stress hormone regulation, and nervous system activity, but whether these biological changes lead to meaningful health benefits remains unclear. The review highlights three outcome categories—symptom reduction, positive psychological growth, and biological outcomes—and notes that the popularity of MBIs must be balanced against scientific evidence for specific clinical effects.
An 8-week mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program for 21 couples where one partner had cancer led to significant reductions in mood disturbance and symptoms of stress—including muscle tension, neurological/gastrointestinal, and upper respiratory symptoms—for both patients and their partners. Mindfulness levels significantly increased in both groups. After the program, partners' mood disturbance scores were positively correlated with patients' stress symptoms and negatively correlated with patients' mindfulness levels. The program improved psychological functioning and mindfulness for both members of the couple.
Participation in an 8-week mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program led to significant increases in mindfulness among 268 individuals with cancer. These increases accompanied a 55% reduction in mood disturbance and a 29% reduction in stress symptoms. Gains in mindfulness accounted for 21% of the mood improvement and 14% of the stress reduction. The two most important mindfulness skills for better psychological functioning were being aware of the present moment and refraining from judging inner experience.