A mindfulness-based program for improving quality of life among hematopoietic stem cell transplantation survivors: feasibility and preliminary findings.
Study Goal
The researchers aimed to compare the effects of a mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) versus psycho-oncological telephone consultation on health-related quality of life (HRQoL), depression, anxiety, and fatigue in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) survivors.
Results Summary
MBI improved HRQoL and reduced depression and anxiety post-intervention with moderate effect sizes (Cohen's d 0.6-0.7), though follow-up benefits were modest. The intervention showed broad feasibility, acceptance, and adherence among participants.
Population
Medically stable HSCT survivors who completed transplantation ≥6 months prior.
Effective Dosage
Structured 8-week mindfulness training program (specific frequency not detailed).
Duration
8 weeks.
Interactions
None mentioned.
| Intervention | Direction | Endpoint | Population | Dosage | Impact | Claim # |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) | increase | HRQoL | HSCT survivors | - | improved | #1 |
mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) | decrease | depression | HSCT survivors | - | reduced | #2 |
mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) | decrease | anxiety | HSCT survivors | - | reduced | #3 |
mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) | increase | well-being | HSCT survivors | - | improved | #4 |
Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is often substantially reduced among individuals who have undergone hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), and incidences of depression, fatigue, and anxiety are elevated. We examined effects of a mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) compared to psycho-oncological telephone consultation upon HRQoL, depression, anxiety, and fatigue among HSCT survivors. Sixty-two medically stable patients participated in the study; they had completed HSCT ≥6 months previously. Thirty-two were randomly assigned to intervention arms, and 30 were offered their treatment preference. MBI consisted of a structured 8-week program of mindfulness training. Assessments were made at baseline, post-intervention and 3 months follow-up. Primary outcome was HRQoL. Depression, fatigue, anxiety, and personal goal attainment were secondary measures. Non-completion of interventions was low in both groups (9 %, MBI; 7 % control). Employing intention-to-treat analysis, MBI, compared with comparison procedure, improved HRQoL and reduced depression and anxiety at post-intervention (p's < 0.05); Cohen's d effect sizes, 0.6-0.7; 3-month follow-up benefits were modest. These findings demonstrate broad feasibility and acceptance of, as well as satisfaction and adherence with, a program of mindfulness training for HSCT survivors; findings also suggest improved HRQoL and well-being as a consequence of MBI. Nevertheless, this is a preliminary study; a larger trial with more prolonged intervention phase is warranted.