Effect of mindfulness-based stress on cancer-related fatigue in breast cancer patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

TL;DR

Mindfulness-based stress reduction therapy helps reduce fatigue and improve sleep in breast cancer patients, according to a review of studies.

Contribution

This study provides updated evidence on the effectiveness of MBSR in reducing cancer-related fatigue and improving sleep quality in breast cancer patients.

Findings

MBSR significantly reduces cancer-related fatigue in breast cancer patients.

MBSR improves sleep quality in breast cancer patients.

The findings have moderate heterogeneity, suggesting caution in interpretation.

Abstract

Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) can seriously affect the quality of life of breast cancer patients. Mindfulness-based stress reduction therapy (MBSR) has been increasingly used in the treatment of breast cancer patients to reduce psychological distress and promote emotional and physical health. This review aims to provide an updated assessment of the role of MBSR in reducing CRF and sleep quality in breast cancer patients.

To evaluate the effect of MBSR on cancer-related fatigue in patients with breast cancer.

Computer search PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Wanfang and other databases, We were able to search for articles related to CRF from MBSR in breast cancer patients from the establishment of the database to October 2023. Researchers independently screened the literature and extracted information. The meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager Software (version 5.3).

A meta-analysis of 11 studies included showed that MBSR could reduce CRF in breast cancer patients (SMD = -0.86, 95%CI = −1.22 ~ −0.50). Improved sleep quality (MD = -2.54, 95%CI = −3.38 ~ −1.70).

Our research indicates that MBSR can reduce CRF and improve sleep quality in breast cancer patients. However, due to the moderate and significant heterogeneity in the quality of evidence observed in the included studies, these findings should be interpreted with caution.

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