A meta-analysis of 13 trials (11 in the quantitative synthesis) examined mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) for breast cancer survivors. At the end of the intervention, anxiety, pain, and depression scores decreased significantly, while mindfulness scores increased significantly. Heterogeneity was moderate to high for anxiety, depression, and mindfulness, making the results inconclusive for those outcomes. The authors suggest MBCT may be beneficial for this population but call for more research to clarify its clinical significance.
Women with breast cancer who completed a structured mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program reported that the training helped alleviate hot flashes and night sweats, improve sleep quality, and foster greater ease with their body's external appearance. Participants also valued the group format for providing psychological support and a space to share negative emotional experiences. The study identifies short-term benefits of group-based MBSR for managing menopausal symptoms, sleep disturbance, and body image concerns, while also noting implementation difficulties and coping strategies.