Meta-Analytic Insights Into Mindfulness Approaches for Depression and Diabetes Comorbidity Care.
Kenni Wojujutari Ajele, Erhabor Sunday Idemudia
Diabetes spectrum : a publication of the American Diabetes Association January 1, 2025 DOI: 10.2337/ds24-0048 (opens in new tab) via PubMed
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractMindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) significantly reduce depressive symptoms and improve glycemic control in people with both diabetes and depression. A meta-analysis of 17 randomized controlled trials (1,336 participants) found a large effect on depressive symptoms (SMD -0.88) and a small improvement in A1C levels (SMD -0.23). Mindfulness-based stress reduction and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy each showed strong effects. Effects varied by region, with Asian studies showing greater benefits than North American ones. The authors argue that culturally adapted approaches are important and call for further research to refine MBI applications in diabetes care.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Systematic review and meta-analysis Randomized Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 1,336 |
| Population | People with diabetes and depressive symptoms |
| Key finding | Mindfulness-based interventions significantly reduced depressive symptoms (SMD -0.88) and improved A1C levels (SMD -0.23) in individuals with comorbid diabetes and depression. |
Abstract
This study evaluated the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) in managing comorbid depression and diabetes by assessing their efficacy in reducing depressive symptoms and improving glycemic control, while addressing inconsistencies in existing research. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted of 17 randomized controlled trials published between 2013 and 2024 and involving 1,336 participants with diabetes and depressive symptoms. Effect sizes were calculated using Hedges' g and random-effects models, with heterogeneity assessed using I 2 statistics. MBIs significantly reduced depressive symptoms (standardized mean difference [SMD] -0.88, 95% CI -1.34 to -0.42) with high heterogeneity (I 2 = 90%) and improved A1C levels (SMD -0.23, 95% CI -0.38 to -0.08). Among intervention types, mindfulness-based stress reduction (SMD -1.02, 95% CI -1.57 to -0.48) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (SMD -0.92, 95% CI -1.45 to -0.39) showed strong effects. Effects varied by region, with Asian studies showing greater benefits (SMD -1.44) compared with North American studies (SMD -0.61). MBIs are effective in reducing depressive symptoms and improving glycemic control in individuals with comorbid diabetes and depression. These findings highlight the importance of culturally adapted approaches and call for further research to refine MBI applications in diabetes care.