Evaluating the Effects of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on Psychological Outcome and Quality of Life among Radiotherapy: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background: Cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy frequently encounter high levels of distress, anxiety, depressive symptoms, which reduced quality of life (QoL). Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (MB-CBT) integrates mindfulness principles along with cognitive restructuring and has become a potential intervention.

Objective: To systematically review evidence on effectiveness of MB-CBT which improves psychological well-being, quality of life among adult oncology patients receiving radiotherapy.

Methods: Relevant literature was systematically identified by searching multiple electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library, covering publications from 2010 to 2024. Studies eligible for inclusion comprised randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental designs, and controlled clinical trials that investigated the impact of mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy among patients undergoing radiotherapy. The review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 recommendations and was registered in advance with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; CRD420261282045). The quality of the selected studies and potential bias were assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias version 2 (RoB-2) assessment tool.

Findings: Total 16 Research studies satisfied the inclusion requirements. The significant improvement in anxiety, depression scores, emotional well-being, cancer-related stress, and overall QoL. The MB-CBT intervention duration ranged 4– 10 weeks. Psychological improvements were typically measured using HADS, DASS-21, BDI, and WHO-5 scales; QoL improvements were measured using EORTC-QLQ-C30 and FACT-G.

Conclusion: Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MB-CBT) has demonstrated significant effectiveness in lessening psychological suffering and enhancing overall "Quality of life" among cancer patients receiving radiotherapy. More comprehensive RCTs with adequate sample sizes are essential to draw stronger and more conclusive evidence.