Perceptions about using mindfulness therapy: a lung cancer focus group study.
Rebecca H Lehto, Gwen Wyatt
Cancer Nursing 2013 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0b013e31826d2f16 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Qualitative study Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 11 |
| Population | Lung cancer patients |
| Intervention | breathing |
| Duration | 8-week intervention (standard protocol discussed; participants recommended a shorter duration) |
| Topics | Meditation |
| Key findings | Lung cancer patients in focus groups expressed interest in a mindfulness-based intervention but identified barriers and recommended adaptations. They emphasized targeting dyspnea, worry, and insomnia, shortening the standard 8-week protocol, and delivering the program at home for greater accessibility. The authors argue that intervention protocols must account for the unique characteristics of this population. |
Abstract
Patients with lung cancer are in need of effective strategies to modify symptom burden and improve health-related quality of life (HRQOL). One promising approach to symptom management is an 8-week mindfulness-based intervention, which incorporates meditation, breathing, and gentle yoga exercises. It requires few resources to implement, but has not been adequately tested with lung cancer patients. The purpose of this study was to obtain lung cancer patient perceptions of a mindfulness-based intervention. Eleven lung cancer patients participated in audio-taped focus group sessions led by the investigator. Discussion questions probed patient perceptions of mindfulness in terms of symptom management, including benefits and barriers to this therapy and ways the intervention may need to be adapted to accommodate them. Three primary themes from the qualitative analysis include (1) awareness and interest, (2) perceived barriers and benefits, and (3) recommended adaptations. Specific perceptions included the importance of targeting key symptoms such as dyspnea, worry, and insomnia, whereas recommendations pointed out the need for a shorter duration than the standard 8-week protocol and a home-based approach for greater accessibility. The design of mindfulness-based intervention protocols must consider unique characteristics of this vulnerable group, such as targeting specific symptoms, reducing the 8-week protocol, and a home-based offering. Nurses are integral to optimizing HRQOL and independent functioning for lung cancer patients. As lung cancer survivorship is extended, it becomes increasingly imperative that a range of supportive resources is available for patients to manage symptoms and improve HRQOL.
Comparable studies
Other qualitative studies on meditation, most cited first.
Citations in the library
Cited by 3
- Preliminary examination of the validity of a behavioral mindfulness measure in adults with advanced cancer and their family caregivers. Palliative & Supportive Care July 6, 2026
- Effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions on anxiety, depression, and fatigue in people with lung cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis. International Journal of Nursing Studies 2023
- Engaging Patients in Research That Involves Meditation: Religious Concerns and Nursing Implications Cancer Nursing December 21, 2021
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and 8 more in the library