Quality of Life and Mindfulness in Oncology: Randomized controlled study in Portugal

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the acceptability, and measure the impact on the health-related quality of life (QoL), of a mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) in supportive care of Portuguese cancer survivors.

Methods: In 26 cancer outpatients, mostly women (96%), mostly with breast (58%) and gastrointestinal (23%) cancers, randomly assigned to intervention and control groups, we have measured QoL and Mindfulness at randomization, at the end of the program and 12 weeks after its completion.

Results: In the intervention group, the attrition rate was null QoL had improved compared to controls, especially at 12-week follow-up.

Conclusions: This pilot study shows that MBIs may be helpful in supportive care to Portuguese cancer survivors and opens up favorable perspectives for larger, more representative studies.