The Effects of Mindfulness-Based Interventions on Mental Health, Quality of Life, and Physical Activity in Cancer Patients: A Literature Review

Mindfulness-based interventions, such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, may improve mental health and quality of life in cancer patients. The review of the literature indicates that these psychosocial approaches help patients cope with stress, anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life associated with diagnosis and treatment. The paper also examines the impact of MBIs on physical activity among cancer patients, though the review does not provide a single quantitative finding.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Cancer is a major burden in both the somatic and psychological dimensions. Oncology patients often experience high levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life resulting from both the diagnosis itself and the course of treatment. In recent years, growing attention has been paid to psychosocial interventions that help patients cope with these difficulties. One such approach is mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs), including programs such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). The aim of this paper was to review the literature on the impact of mindfulness-based interventions on mental health, quality of life, and physical activity among cancer patients.