Mindfulness meditation for younger breast cancer survivors: a randomized controlled trial

What can the psychoneuroimmunology of yoga teach us about depression's psychopathology?

Depression, the most prevailing mental health condition, remains untreated in over 30% of patients. This cluster presents with sub-clinical inflammation. Investigations trialling anti-inflammatory medications had mixed results. The lack of results may result from inflammation's complexity and targeting only a few of depression's abnormal pathways. Mind-body therapies' biological and neuro-imaging studies offer valuable insights into depression psychopathology. Interestingly, mind-body therapies, like yoga, reverse the aberrant pathways in depression. These aberrant pathways include decreased cognitive function, interoception, neuroplasticity, salience and default mode networks connectivity, parasympathetic tone, increased hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity, and metabolic hyper/hypofunction. Abundant evidence found yogic techniques improving self-reported depressive symptoms across various populations. Yoga may be more effective in treating depression in conjunction with pharmacological and cognitive therapies. Yoga's psychoneuroimmunology teaches us that reducing allostatic load is crucial in improving depressive symptoms. Mind-body therapies promote parasympathetic tone, downregulate the HPA axis, reduce inflammation and boost immunity. The reduced inflammation promotes neuroplasticity and, subsequently, neurogenesis. Improving interoception resolves the metabolic needs prediction error and restores homeostasis. Additionally, by improving functional connectivity within the salience network, they restore the dynamic switching between the default mode and central executive networks, reducing rumination and mind-wandering. Future investigations should engineer therapies targeting the mechanisms mentioned above. The creation of multi-disciplinary health teams offering a combination of pharmacological, gene, neurofeedback, behavioural, mind-body and psychological therapies may treat treatment-resistant depression.

The use of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) for breast cancer patients-meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) intervention has been widely used to reduce the burden of symptoms in cancer patients, and its effectiveness has been proven. However, the effectiveness of MBSR on depression, anxiety, fatigue, quality of life (QOL), posttraumatic growth (PTG), fear of cancer recurrence (FCR), pain, and sleep in breast cancer patients has not yet been determined. This study aims to determine the role of mindfulness-based stress reduction therapy in patients with breast cancer.

OBJECTIVES

The objective was to systematically review the literature to explore the effect of MBSR on anxiety, depression, QOL, PTG, fatigue, FCR, pain, stress and sleep in breast cancer patients. To explore the effect of 8-week versus 6-week MBSR on the 9 indicators. Data were extracted from the original RCT study at the end of the intervention and three months after baseline to explore whether the effects of the intervention were sustained.

METHODS

We conducted searches on PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure from inception to November 2023. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials of breast cancer patients who received mindfulness stress reduction intervention, reporting outcomes for anxiety, depression, fatigue, QOL, PTG, FCR, pain, stress, and sleep. Two researchers conducted separate reviews of the abstract and full text, extracted data, and independently evaluated the risk of bias using the Cochrane 'Bias Risk Assessment tool'. The meta-analysis utilized Review Manager 5.4 to conduct the study, and the effect size was determined using the standardized mean difference and its corresponding 95% confidence interval.

RESULTS

The final analysis included 15 studies with a total of 1937 patients. At the end of the intervention, the interventions with a duration of eight weeks led to a significant reduction in anxiety [SMD=-0.60, 95% CI (-0.78, -0.43), P < 0.00001, I2 = 31%], depression [SMD=-0.39, 95% CI (-0.59, -0.19), P = 0.0001, I2 = 55%], and QOL [542 participants, SMD = 0.54, 95% CI (0.30, 0.79), P < 0.0001, I2 = 49%], whereas no statistically significant effects were found in the intervention with a duration of six weeks. Similarly, in 3 months after baseline, the interventions with a duration of eight weeks led to a significant reduction in depression and QOL, however, no statistically significant effects were found at the 6-week intervention. MBSR led to a significant improvement in PTG at end of intervention [MD = 6.25, 95% CI (4.26, 8.25), P < 0.00001, I2 = 0%] and PTG 3 months after baseline. We found that MBSR reduced the fatigue status at end of intervention, but had no significant effect on fatigue status 3 months after baseline. There was no significant difference in improving pain, stress, and FCR compared to usual care.

CONCLUSIONS

In terms of effects on QOL, anxiety, depression, and fatigue, the 8-week MBSR intervention showed better results than the 6-week MBSR intervention. The intervention of MBSR on PTG was effective, and the effect lasted until 3 months after baseline. Future studies could further identify the most effective intervention components in MBSR.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023483980.

Non-pharmacological therapies for depression in women with breast cancer at different treatment phases: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

CONTEXT

Various non-pharmacological therapies (NPTs) have been found to be helpful for depression in women with breast cancer (BC). However, the relative efficacy of different NPTs in women with BC at different treatment phases is unclear.

OBJECTIVES

To conduct a systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) to compare the relative efficacy of various NPTs for improving depression in women with BC during the inter-/post-treatment periods.

METHODS

We searched eight databases (Embase, PubMed, PsycINFO, The Cochrane Library, Chinese Biomedical Database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chinese Scientific Journal Database, and WanFang Database) to identify relevant randomized controlled trials published in English and Chinese from their inception to January 31, 2024. We assessed the methodological quality of the included studies using the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias Tool. NMA was conducted using a frequentist approach. Surface under the cumulative ranking (SUCRA) probabilities were used to rank the NPTs.

RESULTS

A total of 41 articles involving 5408 participants studied 18 NPTs. Based on NMA, in the inter-treatment phase, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), psychological education, virtual reality (VR) and yoga significantly improved depression in women with BC. MBCT, psychological education, and VR were the three most effective NPTs in this period. In the post-treatment phase, mindfulness-based stress reduction significantly improved depression in women with BC, which was the most effective NPTs in this period. Based on the GRADE framework, most results were rated as "high" to "very low" for the confidence of evidence.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study confirmed the efficacy of several NPTs for depression in women with BC during inter-/post-treatment phases. These results should inform future clinical decisions and guidelines for depression in women with BC.

Effects of mindfulness-based stress reduction on cancer-related fatigue in patients with breast cancer: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Introduction

Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) has been widely used for improving psychological symptoms and sleep quality in breast cancer patients and has a positive impact on posttraumatic growth and immunology. Moreover, MBSR is increasingly being used in cancer-related fatigue (CRF) intervention studies for breast cancer patients, but conflicting results also exist.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of MBSR on CRF in patients with breast cancer.

Methods

A comprehensive computer search of the Pubmed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, China Biomedical Document Service System, China Knowledge Infrastructure Engineering, Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Platform, and VIP databases was performed. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published before April 10, 2023, were identified. The primary outcome was cancer-related fatigue associated with breast cancer. Two researchers independently screened the studies, extracted the data, and evaluated the methodological quality of the studies according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The Meta-analysis of the outcome indicators was performed using STATA 16.0 software.

Results

A total of 13 studies were included, including 1992 patients (997 patients in the MBSR group and 1015 patients in the control group). Compared with conventional care, MBSR significantly alleviated the symptoms of CRF in breast cancer patients (SMD=-0.32, 95% CI [-0.42, -0.22], z=6.54, p<.01). Under the supervision of experts, the 8-week MBSR had a great influence on CRF, especially in the Asian population.

Conclusions

MBSR is effective in the treatment of CRF induced by breast cancer, and no obvious adverse effects occur; thus, MBSR can be recommended as a beneficial adjuvant therapy for treating CRF in breast cancer patients.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42021245365.

Positive health outcomes of mindfulness-based interventions for cancer patients and survivors: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) are commonly used for cancer patients and survivors to reduce symptoms, but little is known about effects on positive health outcomes. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the effects of MBIs on positive health outcomes (mindfulness skills, self-compassion, positive affect, coping, social support, well-being, personal growth, and spirituality) in cancer patients and survivors. Four databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and CINAH) were searched (grey literature was not included), abstracts and full texts were screened, and MBI quality and risk of bias were assessed. Effect sizes were calculated and data was analyzed using a frequentist analytical strategy. Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effect of MBIs compared to any type of control on positive health outcomes in cancer patients or survivors. Based on 46 RCTs eligible for meta-analysis, statistical significant effects were observed for all positive health outcomes at post-treatment. Effect sizes ranged from small (positive affect; Hedges's g = 0.26) to large (spirituality, g = 0.91). At follow-up, mindfulness skills, self-compassion, personal growth, and spirituality reached statistical significance, with effect sizes ranging from small (positive affect; g = 0.07) to medium (spirituality; g = 0.61) and large (post-traumatic growth; g = 1.40). Taken together, significant effects of MBIs were found for several positive outcomes in cancer patients and survivors, with the strongest evidence found for mindfulness skills. MBIs may play a key role in improving well-being in this population.

Influence of stress-specific interventions on biomarker levels and cognitive function in cancer patients: Systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Cancer patients' psycho-physiological health is seriously affected by long-term exposure to stress. Many studies have explored the impact of stress-specific interventions on cancer patients' biomarker levels and cognitive functions. However, the current research findings are inconsistent, and their statistical power is limited by the small samples. Therefore, we conducted this meta-analysis to verify the effect of stress-specific interventions on cancer patients.

METHODS

The literature involved nine databases from the inception until January 13, 2024, extracted 19 randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Review Manager (RevMan) 5.4 software was used to perform a meta-analysis, and the revised Cochrane risk of bias tool (RoB2) was utilized for quality evaluation.

RESULTS

Nine RCTs were assessed as having a low risk of bias, and others had a moderate risk. The results showed that stress-specific interventions had beneficial effects on patients' subjective cognition but uncertain impacts on their executive function, tumour necrosis factor-α level, morning cortisol level, and no effect on cortisol at other times, interleukin (IL)-10, IL-8, IL-6, IL-1, and C-reactive protein.

CONCLUSION

More rigorous studies are required to elucidate the influence of stress-specific interventions on biomarker levels. The potential mechanism by which stress-specific interventions affect the cancer patient's cognitive function remains unclear.

Sleep effects of psychological therapies for menopausal symptoms in women with hot flashes and night sweats: A systematic review

Sleep disturbance is frequently reported by women during the menopausal transition due to various physiological changes and environmental factors. Insomnia is a critical treatment target for its deleterious effects on daytime functioning and quality of life and increased risk of developing a depressive disorder. Due to medication side effects and patient preferences, there is increased interest in the use of psychological treatments that address the myriad of menopausal symptoms, including cognitive-behavioural therapy, clinical hypnosis and mindfulness-based therapies. The objective of this article is to review the effects of psychological treatments for menopausal symptoms on sleep disturbance in peri-/postmenopausal women. We conducted a systematic review of the literature using PubMed and reference lists from inception until May 2023, including 12 studies that evaluated sleep as a secondary outcome. Most studies found that group and self-help (guided and unguided) cognitive-behavioural therapies and clinical hypnosis for menopausal symptoms have positive effects on sleep among women with significant vasomotor symptoms. There was preliminary support for mindfulness-based stress reduction. Future research including more diverse samples and women with sleep disorders is needed. Evaluating the implementation of psychological therapies in clinics where menopausal women seek care is an important next step.

Breast Cancer Surgery: A Qualitative Exploration of Concerns Over Time

INTRODUCTION

As outcomes for breast cancer patients improve, addressing the side effects and distress of treatment can optimize survivorship. Although distress in breast cancer is well known in literature, there is a lack of information on how these concerns change through the phases of the cancer care continuum. Therefore, this study investigates the longitudinal trajectory of worry in patients with nonmetastatic breast cancer.

METHODS

Female patients with newly diagnosed stage I-III breast cancer comprised a mixed-methods, longitudinal study at a cancer center from June 2019 to June 2023. Patients completed an open-ended survey regarding their top three concerns. Responses were obtained before surgery and two weeks, three, six, nine months, and one year postoperatively. Responses were qualitatively coded and analyzed to determine themes of cancer-related distress.

RESULTS

Participants (n = 262) were aged an average 57.53 y (±12.54), 65.8% had stage I disease at diagnosis, and 91.1% were White. Responses revealed that patients' top three sources of concerns varied by treatment phase. Overall, patients were worried about their cancer diagnosis and the risk of recurrence. Preoperatively, patients were worried about treatment timeline, while postoperative concerns transitioned to physical appearance and surgical side effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Breast cancer patients consistently reported worries about cancer diagnosis, recurrence, and metastasis as well as the side effects and fear of treatments. However, patient worry appeared to be intrinsically linked with their treatment phase. Therefore, support and interventions should be catered to reflect the changing patterns of patients' sources of distress to optimize breast cancer patients' quality of life.

The effect of mindfulness-based interventions on biomarkers in cancer patients and survivors: A systematic review

Various reviews and meta-analyses have shown the positive effects of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) on the mental health of cancer patients and survivors. Some studies have also investigated the impact of MBIs on physiological markers of health in oncology, but a systematic review has not been conducted in this field. The current paper aims to fill this gap in the literature. Following preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses 2020 guidelines, data were obtained from the databases of Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science in May 2022. Twenty-five studies were included. Globally, 35 biomarkers were employed in these studies and were categorized 8 groups (cortisol; blood pressure (BP), heart rate, and respiratory rate; C-reactive protein; telomere length and telomerase activity (TA); genetic signature; cytokines and hormones; leucocyte activation; leucocyte count and cell subpopulation analysis). In seven of these categories of biomarkers, positive effects of MBIs were observed. The most promising results were obtained for cortisol, BP, TA and pro-inflammatory gene expression. However, the generally low number of studies per single biomarker limits the possibility to draw reliable conclusions. The present review presents a comprehensive state-of-the-art for MBIs in oncology on biomarkers, confirming MBIs' potential for improving physiological health in cancer patients and survivors besides those already shown in literature on psychological well-being.

The impact of online yoga on sleep and quality of life in women with breast cancer: a randomized trial

INTRODUCTION

There is growing evidence of the benefit of physical activity and mindfulness in breast cancer patients (HC et al. in BMC Complement Altern Med, 2017). Yoga offers a combination of both. The aim of this study was to establish an online yoga program for breast cancer patients and survivors. As the project was launched during the (COVID) pandemic restrictions, we intended to prove effective online yoga as a way to access supportive therapy independently of sanitary issues and geographic locations in rural regions.

METHODS

The two main outcomes were quality of life and sleep quality, and both were evaluated by standardized questionnaires (EORTC-QLQ 30 BR 23 and PSQI). Participants (n = 173) had breast cancer or a history of breast cancer and were randomized to either 6 weeks online yoga, twice a week for 45 min or a waiting control group.

RESULTS

Our results show improved sleep quality in the PSQI score and improved subitems (dyspnea and physical activity) in the EORTC quality of life score.

DISCUSSION

Online yoga seems to be a valid option in supportive therapy for breast cancer patients, as it improves physical fitness, dyspnea and overall sleep quality. It is also safe and cost effective as a remote intervention.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Trial registration number and date of registration for prospectively registered trials: DRKS00029548, 07.07.2022.WHO International clinical trials registry platform number: DRKS00029548. The registration number of the ethical committee CAU in Kiel: D 589/20.

Effect of acceptance and commitment therapy-based interventions on mental health and cognitive impairment for patients with advanced colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

The mental and emotional health of persons diagnosed with cancer is frequently affected. The acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is one of the psychological interventions that has proven successful in easing these psychological symptoms and enhancing cancer patients' psychological well-being.

METHODS

A two-arm randomized controlled trial study was utilized, 30 eligible clients with colorectal cancer were chosen randomly and were given ACT therapy at a 1:1 ratio. ACT was delivered in six sessions for 3 weeks, followed by 3 months follow-up.

RESULTS

The table shows a statistically significant increase in the mean scores of the mental health and its flourishing level among the study group than those of the control group. Cognitive impairment was significantly decreased among the study group than for those in the control group.

CONCLUSION

The ACT-based interventions may be a promising approach for improving mental health and cognitive function in cancer patients, particularly those with advanced disease.

Humanistic Health Management and Cancer: Associations of Psychology, Nutrition, and Exercise with Cancer Progression and Pathogenesis

The incidence rate of cancer is increasing year by year due to the aging of the population, unhealthy living, and eating habits. At present, surgery and medication are still the main treatments for cancer, without paying attention to the impact of individual differences in health management on cancer. However, increasing evidence suggests that individual psychological status, dietary habits, and exercise frequency are closely related to the risk and prognosis of cancer. The reminder to humanity is that the medical concept of the unified treatment plan is insufficient in cancer treatment, and a personalized treatment plan may become a breakthrough point. On this basis, the concept of "Humanistic Health Management" (HHM) is proposed. This concept is a healthcare plan that focuses on self-health management, providing an accurate and comprehensive evaluation of individual lifestyle habits, psychology, and health status, and developing personalized and targeted comprehensive cancer prevention and treatment plans. This review will provide a detailed explanation of the relationship between psychological status, dietary, and exercise habits, and the regulatory mechanisms of cancer. Intended to emphasize the importance of HHM concept in cancer prevention and better prognostic efficacy, providing new ideas for the new generation of cancer treatment.

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Reduces Proinflammatory Gene Regulation But Not Systemic Inflammation Among Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

Aging is associated with increased proinflammatory gene expression and systemic inflammation, and psychosocial stress may accelerate these changes. Mindfulness interventions show promise for reducing psychosocial stress and extending healthspan. Inflammatory pathways may play a role. In a sample of lonely older adults, we tested whether mindfulness training reduces proinflammatory gene expression and protein markers of systemic inflammation.

METHODS

Lonely older adults (65-85 years; N = 190) were randomly assigned to an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) or matched Health Enhancement Program (HEP). Blood was drawn before and after the intervention and at 3-month follow-up. In peripheral blood mononuclear cells, RNA profiling was used to assess transcriptional regulation by proinflammatory nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) as well as β-adrenergic cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB), antiviral interferon regulatory factor (IRF), and glucocorticoid receptor (GR) transcription factors. Plasma was assayed for proinflammatory markers interleukin 6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP). Analyses tested time (pre, post, follow-up) by condition (MBSR versus HEP) effects.

RESULTS

MBSR reduced NF-κB ( d = 0.17, p = .028) but did not alter CREB ( d = 0.10, p = .20), IRF ( d = 0.13, p = .086), or GR activity ( d = 0.14, p = .063) relative to HEP over time. Contrary to predictions, there were no time by condition effects of MBSR compared with HEP on reducing circulating IL-6 or CRP.

CONCLUSIONS

In lonely older adults, MBSR reduced cellular proinflammatory gene regulation in ways that would predict reduced disease risk. However, no similar effect was observed for circulating protein markers of inflammation. These results provide specificity about how mindfulness interventions may impact distinct inflammatory markers among aging adults in ways that may have important implications for healthspan.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinical Trials identifier NCT02888600.

Effects of chronic stress on cancer development and the therapeutic prospects of adrenergic signaling regulation

Long-term chronic stress is an important factor in the poor prognosis of cancer patients. Chronic stress reduces the tissue infiltration of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) by continuously activating the adrenergic signaling, inhibits antitumor immune response and tumor cell apoptosis while also inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and tumor angiogenesis, promoting tumor invasion and metastasis. This review first summarizes how adrenergic signaling activates intracellular signaling by binding different adrenergic receptor (AR) heterodimers. Then, we focused on reviewing adrenergic signaling to regulate multiple functions of immune cells, including cell differentiation, migration, and cytokine secretion. In addition, the article discusses the mechanisms by which adrenergic signaling exerts pro-tumorigenic effects by acting directly on the tumor itself. It also highlights the use of adrenergic receptor modulators in cancer therapy, with particular emphasis on their potential role in immunotherapy. Finally, the article reviews the beneficial effects of stress intervention measures on cancer treatment. We think that enhancing the body's antitumor response by adjusting adrenergic signaling can enhance the efficacy of cancer treatment.

Mindfulness-based Interventions Across the Cancer Continuum in the United States: A Scoping Review

OBJECTIVE

To review mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) tested in randomized controlled trials (RCT) across the cancer continuum.

DATA SOURCE

Articles identified in PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and Embase.

STUDY INCLUSION AND EXCLUSION CRITERIA

Two independent reviewers screened articles for: (1) topic relevance; (2) RCT study design; (3) mindfulness activity; (4) text availability; (5) country (United States); and (6) mindfulness as the primary intervention component.

DATA EXTRACTION

Twenty-eight RCTs met the inclusion criteria. Data was extracted on the following variables: publication year, population, study arms, cancer site, stage of cancer continuum, participant demographic characteristics, mindfulness definition, mindfulness measures, mindfulness delivery, and behavioral theory.

DATA SYNTHESIS

We used descriptive statistics and preliminary content analysis to characterize the data and identify emerging themes.

RESULTS

A definition of mindfulness was reported in 46% of studies and 43% measured mindfulness. Almost all MBIs were tested in survivorship (50%) or treatment (46%) stages of the cancer continuum. Breast cancer was the focus of 73% of cancer-site specific studies, and most participants were non-Hispanic white females.

CONCLUSION

The scoping review identified 5 themes: (1) inconsistency in defining mindfulness; (2) differences in measuring mindfulness; (3) underrepresentation of racial/ethnic minorities; (4) underrepresentation of males and cancer sites other than breast; and (5) the lack of behavioral theory in the design, implementation, and evaluation of the MBI.

How do mindfulness-based interventions promote coping and self-efficacy in patients with cancer: A systematic review of qualitative and quantitative data

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to review the existing quantitative and qualitative evidence regarding how mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) help cope with cancer-related challenges and increase affected patients' perceived self-efficacy.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted on PubMed, PsycInfo, PubPsych, and CINAHL. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods studies were included if they (1) evaluated MBIs (2) for patients with cancer or cancer survivors (3) regarding their impact on coping with cancer and perceived self-efficacy. The reports were screened by two independent reviewers and conflicts were resolved by a third reviewer. The review was pre-registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022368765).

RESULTS

Findings from 28 reports of 19 quantitative studies, six qualitative studies, and three mixed-methods studies (total N = 1722) were extracted and integrated. The synthesis of quantitative data showed considerable heterogeneity in outcomes and measurement instruments. Most often reported were significant positive impacts of mindfulness on general coping skills, self-regulation, and perceived efficacy in coping with cancer. Qualitative interviews with patients supported those results. The three meta-themes identified were that MBI (1) provided patients with tools to use in stressful situations, (2) promoted a general change of mindset and (3) created a feeling of social connectedness.

CONCLUSIONS

The reviewed studies suggest that MBI can promote coping and enhance the perceived self-efficacy of patients with cancer. In the future, more research investigating the different aspects of coping and the potentially moderating role of self-efficacy could provide further insights with respect to how coping and self-efficacy related to MBI.

A Perspective Review on Diet Quality, Excess Adiposity, and Chronic Psychosocial Stress and Implications for Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide. Although the overall incidence of CRC has been decreasing over the past 40 y, early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC), which is defined as a CRC diagnosis in patients aged >50 y has increased. In this Perspective, we highlight and summarize the association between diet quality and excess adiposity, and EOCRC. We also explore chronic psychosocial stress (CPS), a less investigated modifiable risk factor, and EOCRC. We were able to show that a poor-quality diet, characterized by a high intake of sugary beverages and a Western diet pattern (high intake of red and processed meats, refined grains, and foods with added sugars) can promote risk factors associated with EOCRC development, such as an imbalance in the composition and function of the gut microbiome, presence of chronic inflammation, and insulin resistance. Excess adiposity, particularly obesity onset in early adulthood, is a likely contributor of EOCRC. Although the research is sparse examining CPS and CRC/EOCRC, we describe likely pathways linking CPS to tumorigenesis. Although additional research is needed to understand what factors are driving the uptick in EOCRC, managing body weight, improving diet quality, and mitigating psychosocial stress, may play an important role in reducing an individual's risk of EOCRC.

Mindfulness-based psychosocial interventions and psychological wellbeing in cancer survivorship: a meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Among cancer survivors, mindfulness-based interventions appear promising in decreasing distress for cancer patients, but little attention has been paid to the ultimate mindfulness goal of increasing psychological wellbeing. This meta-analysis aims to summarise and synthesise available evidence concerning the effectiveness of MBIs on positive psychological outcomes reflecting key aspects of psychological wellbeing in heterogeneous cancer patients.

METHODS

A literature search of mindfulness-based randomised clinical trials in cancer survivors was conducted across six electronic databases. Two reviewers independently screened studies and extracted data. Meta-analyses were conducted using R; standardised mean difference (SMD) was used to determine intervention effect. Moderators examined included therapeutic orientation, control group type, treatment modality, treatment target, heterogeneous vs. homogeneous cancer type, and facet of wellbeing.

RESULTS

Thirty-one studies were included (N = 2651). Those who received mindfulness-based interventions reported significantly higher eudaimonic, hedonic, and social wellbeing than respondents in control groups (SMD = 0.599). Interventions were equally effective across therapeutic orientation, control group type, treatment modality and treatment target. There were trend level differences favouring homogeneous cancer diagnosis groups over heterogeneous diagnosis groups.

CONCLUSION

MBIs provide an effective treatment for increasing psychological wellbeing in cancer survivors. This finding has important implications for clinical practice.

Protocol for a pilot study assessing a virtual mindfulness intervention for postpartum African American women

Elevated perinatal depressive symptoms are more common among disadvantaged African American women, and they are almost four times as likely to have postpartum posttraumatic stress compared to white women. For new mothers, depressive symptoms and posttraumatic stress can lead to negative parenting, poor mother-infant bonding, and delayed infant development. For African American women, a culturally adapted mindfulness-based intervention offers great potential as an acceptable approach to reduce psycho-behavioral symptoms and improve mother-infant interactions (i.e., bonding). Additionally, it is critical that mindfulness interventions consider time constraints of new mothers, provide accessible intervention delivery, address parenting, and consider the challenges of caring for an infant. Given these considerations, we describe a pilot research protocol in which we evaluate a culturally adapted mindfulness program: Mindfulness for African Americans Postpartum (MAAP). The intervention is based upon Kabat-Zinn's Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction program, but is adapted to include culturally relevant concepts of spirituality, inter-dependence, self-empowerment, and storytelling, which are salient to African American culture. To accommodate the needs of new mothers, a certified mindfulness interventionist delivers each session virtually using Zoom. The investigation uses a randomized controlled design in which African American women within 12 months of giving birth are randomized either to the MAAP intervention or to an Education Program. The primary aim is to determine the extent to which the MAAP intervention decreases maternal psycho-behavioral symptoms (perceived stress, depressive symptoms, anxiety, poor sleep, posttraumatic stress, and fatigue) and improves mother-infant bonding. A secondary aim is to explore the effects of MAAP on proinflammatory cytokines and oxytocin. Culturally adapted mindfulness interventions delivered virtually will make mindfulness more accessible and meaningful to populations, like African American new mothers, who are at higher risk for postpartum mood disorders and poor infant outcomes.

Peri-operative individually tailored psychological intervention in breast cancer patients improves psychological indices and molecular biomarkers of metastasis in excised tumors

Perioperative stress and inflammatory signaling can invigorate pro-metastatic molecular processes in patients' tumors, potentially worsening long-term survival. Yet, it is unknown whether pre-operative psychotherapeutic interventions can attenuate such effects. Herein, three weeks before surgery, forty women diagnosed with stage I-III invasive ductal/lobular breast carcinoma were randomized to a 6-week one-on-one psychological intervention (6 meetings with a medical psychologist and bi-weekly phone calls) versus standard nursing-staff-attention. The intervention protocol was individually tailored based on evaluation of patients' emotional, cognitive, physiological, and behavioral stress response-patterns, and also included psychoeducation regarding medical treatments and recruitment of social support. Resected primary tumors were subjected to whole-genome RNA sequencing and bioinformatic analyses, assessing a priori hypothesized cancer-relevant molecular signatures. Self-report questionnaires (BSI-18, Hope-18, MSPSS, and a stress-scale) were collected three (T1) and one (T2) week before surgery, a day before (T3) and after (T4) surgery, and three weeks (T5) and 3-months (T6) following surgery. The intervention reduced distress (GSI), depression, and somatization scores (BSI-18: p < 0.01, p < 0.05, p < 0.05; T5 vs. T1). Additionally, tumors from treated patients (vs. controls) showed: (i) decreased activity of transcription control pathways involved in adrenergic and glucocorticoid signaling (CREB, GR) (p < 0.001), pro-inflammatory signaling (NFkB) (p < 0.01), and pro-malignant signaling (ETS1, STAT and GATA families) (p < 0.001, p < 0.01, p < 0.005); (ii) increased M1 macrophage polarization (p < 0.05), and CD4+ T cell activity (p < 0.01); and an unexpected increase in epithelial-to-mesenchymal-transition (EMT) signature (p < 0.005). This is the first randomized controlled trial to show beneficial effects of a psychological perioperative intervention on tumor pro-metastatic molecular biomarkers.

Design of a Remote Time-Restricted Eating and Mindfulness Intervention to Reduce Risk Factors Associated with Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer Development among Young Adults

Early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) is defined as a diagnosis of colorectal cancer (CRC) in individuals younger than 50 years of age. While overall CRC rates in the United States (US) decreased between 2001 and 2018, EOCRC rates have increased. This research project aims to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of Time-Restricted Eating (TRE), Mindfulness, or TRE combined with Mindfulness among young to middle-aged adults at risk of EOCRC. Forty-eight participants will be randomly assigned to one of four groups: TRE, Mindfulness, TRE and Mindfulness, or Control. Data on feasibility, adherence, and acceptability will be collected. Measures assessed at baseline and post-intervention will include body weight, body composition, dietary intake, physical activity, sleep behavior, circulating biomarkers, hair cortisol, and the gut microbiome. The effects of the intervention on the following will be examined: (1) acceptability and feasibility; (2) body weight, body composition, and adherence to TRE; (3) circulating metabolic, inflammation, and oxidative stress biomarkers; (4) intestinal inflammation; and (5) the gut microbiome. TRE, combined with Mindfulness, holds promise for stress reduction and weight management among individuals at risk of EOCRC. The results of this pilot study will inform the design and development of larger trials aimed at preventing risk factors associated with EOCRC.

Mindfulness-based therapies for cancer patients and families: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Mindfulness-based therapies (MBTs) addressed to patients with cancer have been widely studied in the last two decades, and their efficacy has been systematically reviewed and meta-analysed. Although findings from literature highlight benefits of MBTs on several patients' health outcomes, these should be appraised taking into consideration the characteristics of the selected studies. In this systematic review, we summarised the current evidence of the efficacy of MBTs in improving the quality of life of both patients with cancer and their relatives, with a focus on the methodological quality, type of MBT evaluated and population involved in existing randomised controlled trials (RCTs).

METHODS

We searched English language articles published until February 2021. Couples of authors independently applied inclusion criteria and extracted findings. Thirty RCTs were included.

RESULTS

Nearly half of the studies were performed in English-speaking countries outside of Europe, with females diagnosed with breast cancer. Most considered heterogeneous phases of illness; one study only was performed on relatives. In most cases, different measures were employed to evaluate the same outcome. The efficacy of MBTs has been demonstrated in 25 of the 30 included articles. The methodological quality of RCTs was acceptable.

CONCLUSION

The heterogeneity of studies' characteristics makes findings on the efficacy of MBTs poorly informative with reference to different clinical and cancer-related psychological conditions. Studies on more homogeneous samples by cancer site and phase, as well as performed in different cultural contexts, could provide a basis for better evaluating and targeting MBTs' protocols for the specific needs of patients with cancer and their relatives.

Immunosenescence and Inflamm-Aging: Clinical Interventions and the Potential for Reversal of Aging

Inflammation is often associated with the impairment of the ability to sustain the consequences of the physical, chemical, nutritional, and antigenic triggers of inflammation. The process of immunosenescence may only partially be explained by the senescence of cells, tissues, or the organism, and, hence, the hallmarks of immunosenescence may be markedly and differentially affected by the history of an individual's pathogenic encounter. Inflammation is a key component of immunosenescence, which itself is a direct consequence of aging. This review article highlights the therapeutic interventions for slowing the processes of inflamm-aging and immunosenescence and the possible reversal of aging and includes domains of immunomodulatory interventions, vaccination strategies, nutritional interventions, stem cell therapies, personalized medicine, microbiome interventions, and the positive effects of physical activity and exercise.

Biological mechanisms of cancer-related fatigue in breast cancer survivors after treatment: a scoping review

PURPOSE

Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is the most common symptom experienced by cancer survivors. It is a multidimensional symptom affecting physical, emotional, and/or cognitive spheres, different from other types of fatigue. Characteristically is not alleviated by sleep or rest. CRF could have specific features in breast cancer survivors (BCS), because of sex, hormones, and distinct treatments. On the other hand, more than 25% of BCS report persistent CRF for 10 years or more after the diagnosis. The present study aims to recapitulate the knowledge about the biological mechanisms that potentially drive CRF in BCS after treatment.

METHODS

To answer a broad question, a scoping review methodology was used. Data were collated from three bibliographic databases: PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL). Studies were selected if they had included more than 20 BCS, after finishing their treatment, fatigue was measured with a quantitative scale and biomarkers were analyzed.

RESULTS

The final database was composed of 1896 records. Sixty-four studies finally met the eligibility criteria. Inflammation (61%), hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis dysregulation (14%), autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysfunction (11%), and diet (9%) were the biological pathways most frequently studied. Unfortunately, results from studies about inflammation and HPA axis show many inconsistencies.

CONCLUSION

More research about the role of ANS dysfunction and diet on the pathogenesis of CRF would be warranted according to the results of the review. There are some fields such as endocannabinoid systems, mitochondrial dysfunction, gut microbiota, and oxidative stress that have been insufficiently explored.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

To widen the scope of future research in the physiopathology of CRF, it is necessary to identify mechanisms that would be potentially involved and have been insufficiently explored. Because of the high prevalence of CRF in BCS and the tremendous impact that fatigue has in their quality of life, it is essential to improve the efficacy of the treatments through a good knowledge of the biological basis of CRF.

Survivors Overcoming and Achieving Resiliency (SOAR): Mindful Eating Practice for Breast Cancer Survivors in a Virtual Teaching Kitchen

The practice of mindful eating brings awareness to food choices, brings attention to the eating experience, and encourages selecting and preparing food that is both satisfying and nourishing. We examined mindful eating in breast cancer survivors following a 9-week, multidisciplinary virtual teaching kitchen intervention called Survivors Overcoming and Achieving Resiliency (SOAR). SOAR engaged participants through weekly cooking classes that also taught multiple domains of mindfulness. Participants (n = 102) were breast cancer survivors and completed the Mindful Eating Questionnaire (MEQ) prior to and after completion of the intervention. Linear regression analyses examined relationships between the aspects of mindful eating and body mass index (BMI). Wilcoxon (paired) rank sum tests evaluated the significance of the change in the MEQ total sum and subscales scores. A total of 102 participants completed both the pre- and post-intervention surveys. The mean change between the pre- and post-SOAR MEQ summary scores was 0.12 (sd = 0.30; Wilcoxon p-value = 0.0003). All MEQ subscale scores significantly increased with the exception of the distraction subscale. The MEQ summary scores increased for participants across both BMI stratifications. The SOAR teaching kitchen represents one of the first interventions that is tailored for breast cancer survivors and combines behavioral strategies from mindful eating training to nutritional knowledge and culinary medicine pedagogy in a virtual teaching kitchen. Further research is needed to examine whether mindful eating practices among cancer survivors result in sustainable healthy eating behaviors and food choices consistent with the cancer risk reduction guidelines.

Worry and Mindfulness Differentially Impact Symptom Burden Following Treatment Among Breast Cancer Survivors: Findings From a Randomized Crossover Trial

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer survivors often experience many somatic and cognitive side effects resulting from their cancer diagnosis and treatment, including higher rates of pain, fatigue, and memory/concentration problems. Emotion regulation offers opportunities to either enhance or dampen physical health.

PURPOSE

In a secondary analysis of a double-blind randomized controlled trial (RCT) using a typhoid vaccine to assess factors associated with breast cancer survivors' inflammatory responses, we assessed how two specific aspects of emotion regulation, mindfulness, and worry, corresponded to acute changes in focus problems, memory problems, and fatigue along with performance on pain sensitivity and cognitive tasks across two visits among breast cancer survivors.

METHODS

Breast cancer survivors (N = 149) completed two 8.5-hr visits at a clinical research center. Survivors were randomized to either the vaccine/saline placebo or a placebo/vaccine sequence. Worry and mindfulness questionnaires provided data on trait-level emotion regulation abilities. Fatigue, memory problems, and focus difficulties were assessed via Likert scales six times-once before the injections and then every 90 min for 7.5 hr thereafter. Women also completed a pain sensitivity task and several cognitive tasks at each visit.

RESULTS

Findings from this study showed that breast cancer survivors who worried more and were less mindful experienced subjective memory problems, focus problems, and cold pain sensitivity across two visits and irrespective of injection type. Lower mindfulness also corresponded to higher subjective fatigue and hot pain sensitivity and objective ratings. Emotion regulation skills did not predict objective pain sensitivity or cognitive problems.

CONCLUSION

Results from this study highlight the benefits of adaptive emotion regulation in helping mitigate symptoms associated with breast cancer survivorship.

Efficacy of mind-body therapies for sleep disturbance in patients with early-stage cancer: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate and compare the efficacy of different mind-body therapies (MBTs) for sleep disturbance in patients with early-stage cancer.

METHODS

Randomised controlled trials that included patients (aged ≥18 years) with early stage cancer who underwent MBTs (mindfulness, hypnosis, relaxation, yoga, and qigong) were searched in the CINAHL via the EBSCO Host, Cochrane Library, Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, PubMed, and Scopus databases, from the date of database inception to October 2022. The outcomes were subjective sleep disturbance and objective sleep efficiency. Network meta-analysis (NMA) and comparative effects ranking were performed using STATA (v14.0; STATACorp, College Station, TX, USA).

RESULTS

Forty-seven studies investigating five MBTs were included in the NMA. For cancer patients receiving active treatment, mindfulness demonstrated the largest effect size in reducing subjective sleep disturbance (standardised mean difference [SMD]: 0.85; 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 0.20-1.50; Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation assessment: moderate), and had the highest cumulative probability compared to usual care or waitlist. For cancer patients who had completed active treatment, qigong demonstrated the largest effect size in reducing subjective sleep disturbance (SMD: 0.99; 95% CI: 0.35-1.63; GRADE: low), followed by hypnosis (SMD: 0.87; 95% CI: 0.32-1.42; GRADE: moderate), and mindfulness (SMD: 0.42; 95% CI: 0.24-0.59; GRADE: moderate). Qigong also demonstrated the largest effect size in improving objective sleep efficiency (weighted mean differences: 10.76; 95% CI: 2.01-19.50; GRADE: low); however, the effect of qigong was tested in only one study in this NMA. Among the eight different treatment conditions, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) showed the highest cumulative probability (surface under the cumulative ranking curve: 96.3%) in reducing subjective sleep disturbance and the second highest cumulative probability (SUCRA: 83.3%) in improving objective sleep efficiency.

CONCLUSION

There is no evidence supporting the use of MBTs to replace or be comparable to CBT. Mindfulness can be recommended as an optional treatment for reducing sleep disturbance in patients with early-stage cancer. Some support was observed for qigong and hypnosis in reducing sleep disturbances in patients with early-stage cancer who had completed active treatment. More rigorous trials are warranted to confirm whether different forms of MBTs have different effects on sleep in patients with cancer.

Association of psychological distress with arm morbidity symptoms in breast cancer survivors: outcomes from the use of PHQ-9 and GAD-7 questionnaires

BACKGROUND

Although higher survival rates of breast cancer are achieved these days, breast cancer survivors are challenged with unwanted side effects from treatment or management that affect physical, functional, and psychological well-being of an individual. This study aimed to assess psychological distress status in Malaysian breast cancer survivors and factors that affected the condition.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study design was conducted on 162 breast cancer survivors from various breast cancer support groups in Malaysia. Psychological distress status was assessed based on depression and anxiety scores by applying the Malay version of Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and General Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7). Both instruments were self-administered along with a set of questionnaires comprising demographic, medical history, quality of life, and upper extremity function assessment. Outcomes from the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 were analyzed for severity level of psychological distress, and its association with relevant variables, arm morbidity symptoms, as well as the duration of cancer survivorship.

RESULTS

The univariate analysis showed that breast cancer survivors with arm morbidities after breast surgery had a higher score of depression (5.0 vs 4.0, p = 0.011) and anxiety (3.0 vs 1.0, p = 0.026) than those who did not. Besides that, receiving fewer post-rehabilitation treatments (p = 0.049) and having a family history of cancer (p = 0.022) were correlated with higher anxiety level. The level of depression and anxiety was inversely proportionate with quality of life and positively correlated with greater disability of the arm function (p < 0.05). Subsequent analysis showed that arm morbidity symptoms including difficulties in finding a t-shirt that fits and pain in the arm area after breast cancer surgery were positively associated with a higher level of psychological distress.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated the association between psychological distress with arm morbidities in breast cancer survivors. Given that arm morbidities can affect not only physical, but psychological well-being, continuous or serial assessment on both aspects during cancer treatment may effectively help to address mental health issue experienced by this cancer population.

Age and professional experience as determinants of the utilization of psychoneuroimmunological research in clinical practice: An exploratory study

The immune system is affected by psychosocial stimuli and plays a major role in the development of various diseases. Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI)-based interventions may positively influence the disease course; however, the impact of PNI research findings on clinical practice differs depending on the medical specialties involved. A comprehensive overview of the use of PNI research findings in clinical practice is currently lacking. This exploratory study aimed to provide insight into the dissemination of PNI research findings and their practical applications among clinical practitioners. Data was collected from 50 physicians using an ad hoc online questionnaire. We invited participants to take part in our online survey via an article in the DocCheck Newsletter, a German-language newsletter for physicians. Bivariate nonparametric correlation analysis (Spearman correlation) were used to explore the relationship between independent variables (age, sex, medical specialty, professional experience, and clinical environment) and dependent variables (six questionnaire items concerned with awareness, relevance, and utilization of PNI concepts). While 46% of respondents believed that PNI research findings were relevant to patient treatment, only 22% used PNI-based interventions as part of their therapeutic regimen. Furthermore, 90% of participants could not refer their patients to therapists offering PNI-based interventions. Moderately positive correlations were identified between the increasing age (rs = .48, P < .001) and increasing amount of professional experience (rs = .34, P = .02) of study participants and awareness of the theoretical foundations of PNI research. Although there is some awareness of PNI among medical practitioners, there appears to be a clear barrier inhibiting the implementation of research findings in current treatment practices. Therefore, it is necessary to examine the impact of increasing age and professional experience on the utilization of PNI-based interventions in patient care.

Avatar-Based Strategies for Breast Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review

There is a lack of studies to determine if avatar-based protocols could be considered an efficient and accurate strategy to improve psychological well-being in oncology patients, even though it represents a growing field of research. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first systematic review addressing the effectiveness of avatar-based treatments to enhance quality of life (QoL) and psychological well-being in breast cancer patients. The purpose of this study was to review the scientific literature of those studies involving avatar-based technology and breast cancer patients in order to answer the following questions. (1) Are avatar-based strategies useful to im-prove QoL and psychological well-being (anxiety and depression symptoms) in breast cancer patients? (2) Which is the best way to develop avatar-based protocols for breast cancer patients? We conducted a systematic review of the peer-reviewed literature from EBSCO, Ovid, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (WOS), following the PRISMA statements and using "avatar + breast cancer" or "avatar + cancer" as keywords. Studies which were published in either English or Spanish and which addressed QoL and psychological well-being in breast cancer patients were reviewed. The results will contribute to developing innovative avatar-based strategies focused on breast cancer patients.

Nonpharmacological Interventions for Management of the Pain-Fatigue-Sleep Disturbance Symptom Cluster in Breast Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background

The pain-fatigue-sleep disturbance symptom cluster is commonly experienced by breast cancer patients, and a variety of nonpharmacological interventions are used to treat this symptom cluster.

Objective

To compare the efficacy of nonpharmacological interventions in improving the symptoms of the pain-fatigue-sleep disturbance symptom cluster in breast cancer patients.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted in the PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, CNKI, and Wanfang databases to identify randomized controlled studies from database inception to May 2022. Two reviewers independently performed data retrieval and risk of bias assessments. The consistency model was used to conduct network meta-analyses (NMA) based on the frequentist framework to assess the interventions, which were ranked by the surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA). Finally, the CINeMA application was used to evaluate the results of the NMA and the evidence of quality. The results Twenty-three eligible studies assessing 14 interventions were included. According to SUCRA values, among the management effects of the three symptoms, the effect of progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) ranked first, followed by mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). The overall evidence quality of our study ranges from very low to moderate.

Conclusion

PMR and MBSR were effective interventions for the pain-fatigue-sleep disturbance symptom cluster in breast cancer patients. Clinical recommendations prioritize PMR for symptom management, followed by MBSR. However, this should be interpreted cautiously, as the confidence in the evidence was not high.

Research trends in complementary and alternative treatments for insomnia over the past decade: A bibliometrics analysis

Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder, with persistent insomnia being associated with greater risk and leading to a range of functional consequences that place a heavy burden on patients and healthcare systems. A weight of evidence has shown that complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) seems to have a positive effect on improving sleep. However, the research trends of CAM intervention for insomnia have not been studied systematically through bibliometrics. We searched the relevant literature over the past decade in the Web of Science Core Collection database on September 20, 2022 and used CiteSpace and gCLUTO to visually analyze and cluster countries, institutions, authors, journals and keywords. Through screening, 1655 papers were included. In the past decade, the number of articles published in this field shown an annual trend of growth, with explosive growth in 2020. The USA has the largest number of publications, the University of Hong Kong is the leading institution in this field, and the most cited journal is Sleep. Mental condition and quality of life in patients with insomnia, insomnia related to cancer, effect of mindfulness meditation, yoga and aromatherapy on insomnia and the psychiatric symptoms resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic are at the forefront of this field. In this study, bibliometrics and visualization analysis were performed on related studies on CAM intervention for insomnia. This will be the focus and development direction of insomnia treatment in the future to formulate structured treatment plans for traditional Chinese medicine-related CAM, validate large-scale clinical trials, solve cancer comorbidity insomnia and related psychiatric symptoms and deal with mental health-related insomnia after public health outbreaks.

Effects of Sudarshan KriyaYoga and Advanced Meditation Program on Genetic Expression of Pro-inflammatory and Antioxidants Genes

Background Stress leads to immune system dysregulation and dyshomeostasis at the gene level. Mind-body practices are known to influence genomic expression, leading to better health and quality of life. Objective To assess the effect of Advanced Meditation Program (AMP) on the mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory and antioxidative genes among those already practicing Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY). Methods A total of 97 healthy volunteers participated in the study, distributed into two groups. The Group I SKY practitioners attended a four-day AMP (50 participants with an average age of 38.8 ± 11.9 consisting of 37 females and 13 males); they are first-time participants of the AMP. Group II SKY practitioners, on the other hand, consisted of 47 participants with an average age of 36.4 ± 9.3 with 43 females and four males. At day 0, day 5, and day 90, the mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory genes, namely interleukin (IL) 1β, IL6, and the tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and the expression of antioxidative genes, namely superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) was observed. The data were analysed in two phases due to the emergence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19): (i) pre-COVID-19 and (ii) during COVID-19. Results In the pre-COVID-19 data set, IL1β, IL6, and TNF were found to have decreased in both groups. There is a significant increase in the expression of SOD and catalase in Group I and a decrease in Group II by day 90. During COVID-19, pro-inflammatory genes increased in Group I and had no significant change in Group II. All three antioxidant genes had decreased expression by day 90 in Group I; SOD decreased in Group II. Interpretation and conclusions Reduced expression of pro-inflammatory genes and increase in the expression of antioxidative genes during the pre-COVID-19 time suggest that the practice of SKY and added AMP may enhance antioxidative defense and may reduce the chance of getting diseases related to inflammation in the body.

The Effect of Meditation-Based Interventions on Patients with Fatigue Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Persistent fatigue constitutes a prevalent and debilitating symptom in several diseases. The symptom is not effectively alleviated by pharmaceutical treatments, and meditation has been proposed as a non-pharmacological intervention. Indeed, meditation has been shown to reduce inflammatory/immune problems, pain, stress, anxiety and depression which are associated with pathological fatigue. This review synthesizes data from randomized control trials (RCTs) that explored the effect of meditation-based interventions (MeBIs) on fatigue in pathological conditions. Eight databases were searched from inception to April 2020. Thirty-four RCTs met eligibility criteria and covered six conditions (68% cancer), 32 of which were included in the meta-analysis. The main analysis showed an effect in favor of MeBIs compared to control groups (g = 0.62). Separate moderator analyses assessing control group, pathological condition, and MeBI type, highlighted a significantly moderating role of the control group. Indeed, compared to actively controlled studies, studies using a passive control group were associated with a statistically significantly more beneficial impact of the MeBIs (g = 0.83). These results indicate that MeBIs alleviate pathological fatigue and it seems that the studies with a passive control group showed a greater effect of MeBI on the reduction of fatigue compared to studies using active control groups. However, the specific effect of meditation type and pathological condition should be analyzed with more studies, and there remains a need to assess meditation effects on different types of fatigue (i.e., physical and mental) and in additional conditions (e.g., post-COVID-19).

Exploring the potential of mindfulness-based therapy in the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases based on molecular mechanism studies

Neurodegenerative diseases (ND) have received increasing attention due to their irreversibility, but there is still no means to completely cure ND in clinical practice. Mindfulness therapy (MT), including Qigong, Tai Chi, meditation, and yoga, etc., has become an effective complementary treatment modality in solving clinical and subclinical problems due to its advantages of low side effects, less pain, and easy acceptance by patients. MT is primarily used to treat mental and emotional disorders. In recent years, evidence has shown that MT has a certain therapeutic effect on ND with a potential molecular basis. In this review, we summarize the pathogenesis and risk factors of Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), relating to telomerase activity, epigenetics, stress, and the pro-inflammatory transcription factor nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) mediated inflammatory response, and analyze the molecular mechanism basis of MT to prevent and treat ND, to provide possible explanations for the potential of MT treatments for ND.

Integrative Oncology and the Clinical Care Network: Challenges and Opportunities

Integrative oncology is a new and growing field of cancer care. Integrative oncology is a patient-centered, evidence-based field of comprehensive cancer care that utilizes integrative therapies such as mind-body practices, acupuncture, massage, music therapy, nutrition, and exercise in collaboration with conventional cancer treatments. Patient interest and utilization has been growing over the past two decades. Clinical research has shown the benefits of these approaches to improving symptom management and quality of life, and is now being incorporated into national guidelines from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) and American Society for Clinical Oncology (ASCO). The availability of these services at cancer centers is growing, although the structure and implementation of integrative oncology remains highly variable. This article discusses the benefits of integrative oncology and provides an overview of the current state of integrative oncology programs nationwide. Current challenges and opportunities for cancer centers to provide integrative services is reviewed in the areas of programmatic structure, clinical service, education, and research.

The 2023 nonhormone therapy position statement of The North American Menopause Society

OBJECTIVE

To update the evidence-based Nonhormonal Management of Menopause-Associated Vasomotor Symptoms: 2015 Position Statement of The North American Menopause Society.

METHODS

An advisory panel of clinicians and research experts in women's health were selected to review and evaluate the literature published since the Nonhormonal Management of Menopause-Associated Vasomotor Symptoms: 2015 Position Statement of The North American Menopause Society. Topics were divided into five sections for ease of review: lifestyle; mind-body techniques; prescription therapies; dietary supplements; and acupuncture, other treatments, and technologies. The panel assessed the most current and available literature to determine whether to recommend or not recommend use based on these levels of evidence: Level I, good and consistent scientific evidence; Level II, limited or inconsistent scientific evidence, and Level III, consensus and expert opinion.

RESULTS

Evidence-based review of the literature resulted in several nonhormone options for the treatment of vasomotor symptoms. Recommended: Cognitive-behavioral therapy, clinical hypnosis, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors/serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, gabapentin, fezolinetant (Level I); oxybutynin (Levels I-II); weight loss, stellate ganglion block (Levels II-III). Not recommended: Paced respiration (Level I); supplements/herbal remedies (Levels I-II); cooling techniques, avoiding triggers, exercise, yoga, mindfulness-based intervention, relaxation, suvorexant, soy foods and soy extracts, soy metabolite equol, cannabinoids, acupuncture, calibration of neural oscillations (Level II); chiropractic interventions, clonidine; (Levels I-III); dietary modification and pregabalin (Level III).

CONCLUSION

Hormone therapy remains the most effective treatment for vasomotor symptoms and should be considered in menopausal women within 10 years of their final menstrual periods. For women who are not good candidates for hormone therapy because of contraindications (eg, estrogen-dependent cancers or cardiovascular disease) or personal preference, it is important for healthcare professionals to be well informed about nonhormone treatment options for reducing vasomotor symptoms that are supported by the evidence.

Hybrid Delivery of Mindfulness Meditation and Perceived Stress in Pediatric Resident Physicians: A Randomized Clinical Trial of In-Person and Digital Mindfulness Meditation

Physicians are experiencing epidemic levels of work-related stress and burnout. Determine efficacy of mindfulness meditation delivered as a hybrid (in-person and digital) format to reduce perceived stress in pediatric residents. Pediatric residents (n = 66) were block randomized to a hybrid Mindful Awareness Practices (MAPs) intervention, comprised of one in-person 60-min session and 6-week access to a digitally delivered MAPs curriculum (n = 27) or wait-list control (n = 39). Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) was administered at baseline and post-intervention as the primary outcome measure. A priori secondary outcomes were measured using the Abbreviated Maslach Burnout Inventory-9, Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory, UCLA Loneliness Scale, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. After the first session, 58% participated at least one digital session (M = 2.0; SD = 1.3). MAPs participants showed significant decrease in PSS compared to controls, with between-group mean difference of 2.20 (95% CI 0.47-3.93) at post-intervention (effect size 0.91; 0.19-1.62). No secondary outcome group differences were detected. Exposure to a hybrid mindfulness intervention was associated with improvement in perceived stress among pediatric residents.Trial Registration: NCT03613441.

The tumor-nerve circuit in breast cancer

It is well established that innervation is one of the updated hallmarks of cancer and that psychological stress promotes the initiation and progression of cancer. The breast tumor environment includes not only fibroblasts, adipocytes, endothelial cells, and lymphocytes but also neurons, which is increasingly discovered important in breast cancer progression. Peripheral nerves, especially sympathetic, parasympathetic, and sensory nerves, have been reported to play important but different roles in breast cancer. However, their roles in the breast cancer progression and treatment are still controversial. In addition, the brain is one of the favorite sites of breast cancer metastasis. In this review, we first summarize the innervation of breast cancer and its mechanism in regulating cancer growth and metastasis. Next, we summarize the neural-related molecular markers in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. In addition, we review drugs and emerging technologies used to block the interactions between nerves and breast cancer. Finally, we discuss future research directions in this field. In conclusion, the further research in breast cancer and its interactions with innervated neurons or neurotransmitters is promising in the clinical management of breast cancer.

Symptom management in adult brain tumours: A literature review

AIM

To review the literature related to symptom management, clinical significance and related theoretical framework systems in adult patients with brain tumours.

BACKGROUND

As understanding of symptoms or symptom clusters and underlying biologic mechanisms has grown, it is apparent that symptom science is moving forward. Although some progress has been made in the symptom science of solid tumours such as breast and lung neoplasms, insufficient attention has been paid to symptom management for patients suffering from brain tumours. Further research is needed to achieve effective symptom management for these patients.

DESIGN

A literature review with a systematic search of symptom management in adult brain tumours.

METHODS

Electronic data bases were searched to obtain relevant published literature on symptom management in adults with brain tumours. This was then analysed and a synthesis of relevant findings is presented.

FINDINGS

Four significant general themes relating to symptom management of brain tumours in adults were identified: (1) The potential theoretical foundation related to symptom management was revealed. (2) Widely accepted validated scales or questionnaires for the assessment of single symptoms or symptom clusters were recommended. (3) Several symptom clusters and the underlying biologic mechanisms have been reported. (4) Specific symptom interventions for adults with brain tumours were collected and classified as evidence-based or insufficient evidence.

CONCLUSION

There are still many challenges in the effective management of symptoms in adults with brain tumours. The guiding role of theoretical frameworks or models related to symptom management should be utilized in future research. Using the concept of symptom clustering for research into symptoms found in patients with brain tumours, exploring common biological mechanisms for specific symptom clusters and making full use of modern big data resources to build a strong evidence base for an effective intervention or management program may inform the management of symptoms among these patients leading to better results.

NO PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

This is a literature review.

IMPLICATIONS FOR SYMPTOM MANAGEMENT

The ultimate goal is obviously not only improving the survival rate of patients with brain tumours, but also enhancing their quality of life. Several important findings from our review include the theoretical foundations, validated assessment tools, the assessment of symptom clusters and the underlying biologic mechanism, and the identification of the evidence base for symptom interventions. These are of relevance for managers, researchers and practitioners and may function as a reference to help the effective symptom management for adults with brain tumours.

Aged brain and neuroimmune responses to COVID-19: post-acute sequelae and modulatory effects of behavioral and nutritional interventions

Advanced age is one of the significant risk determinants for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-related mortality and for long COVID complications. The contributing factors may include the age-related dynamical remodeling of the immune system, known as immunosenescence and chronic low-grade systemic inflammation. Both of these factors may induce an inflammatory milieu in the aged brain and drive the changes in the microenvironment of neurons and microglia, which are characterized by a general condition of chronic inflammation, so-called neuroinflammation. Emerging evidence reveals that the immune privilege in the aging brain may be compromised. Resident brain cells, such as astrocytes, neurons, oligodendrocytes and microglia, but also infiltrating immune cells, such as monocytes, T cells and macrophages participate in the complex intercellular networks and multiple reciprocal interactions. Especially changes in microglia playing a regulatory role in inflammation, contribute to disturbing of the brain homeostasis and to impairments of the neuroimmune responses. Neuroinflammation may trigger structural damage, diminish regeneration, induce neuronal cell death, modulate synaptic remodeling and in this manner negatively interfere with the brain functions.In this review article, we give insights into neuroimmune interactions in the aged brain and highlight the impact of COVID-19 on the functional systems already modulated by immunosenescence and neuroinflammation. We discuss the potential ways of these interactions with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and review proposed neuroimmune mechanisms and biological factors that may contribute to the development of persisting long COVID conditions. We summarize the potential mechanisms responsible for long COVID, including inflammation, autoimmunity, direct virus-mediated cytotoxicity, hypercoagulation, mitochondrial failure, dysbiosis, and the reactivation of other persisting viruses, such as the Cytomegalovirus (CMV). Finally, we discuss the effects of various interventional options that can decrease the propagation of biological, physiological, and psychosocial stressors that are responsible for neuroimmune activation and which may inhibit the triggering of unbalanced inflammatory responses. We highlight the modulatory effects of bioactive nutritional compounds along with the multimodal benefits of behavioral interventions and moderate exercise, which can be applied as postinfectious interventions in order to improve brain health.

The neural addiction of cancer

The recently uncovered key role of the peripheral and central nervous systems in controlling tumorigenesis and metastasis has opened a new area of research to identify innovative approaches against cancer. Although the 'neural addiction' of cancer is only partially understood, in this Perspective we discuss the current knowledge and perspectives on peripheral and central nerve circuitries and brain areas that can support tumorigenesis and metastasis and the possible reciprocal influence that the brain and peripheral tumours exert on one another. Tumours can build up local autonomic and sensory nerve networks and are able to develop a long-distance relationship with the brain through circulating adipokines, inflammatory cytokines, neurotrophic factors or afferent nerve inputs, to promote cancer initiation, growth and dissemination. In turn, the central nervous system can affect tumour development and metastasis through the activation or dysregulation of specific central neural areas or circuits, as well as neuroendocrine, neuroimmune or neurovascular systems. Studying neural circuitries in the brain and tumours, as well as understanding how the brain communicates with the tumour or how intratumour nerves interplay with the tumour microenvironment, can reveal unrecognized mechanisms that promote cancer development and progression and open up opportunities for the development of novel therapeutic strategies. Targeting the dysregulated peripheral and central nervous systems might represent a novel strategy for next-generation cancer treatment that could, in part, be achieved through the repurposing of neuropsychiatric drugs in oncology.

Effects of Brain Wave Vibration Training on the Pain and Fatigue Disturbance Symptom Cluster in Persons with Cancer: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Pain and fatigue disturbance constitute the most common symptom cluster in persons with cancer, causing physical and psychological problems associated with a decreased quality of life. This study investigated the effects of brain wave vibration (BWV) training on the pain and fatigue disturbance symptom cluster in persons with cancer. A total of 43 participants were voluntarily recruited and randomly assigned to the experimental group (BWV with therapeutic massage, n = 25) or the control group (conventional physical therapy with spontaneous physical activity, n = 18) (Randomized controlled trial registration number: KCT0005843). BWV with therapeutic massage was performed for a total of 24 sessions (70 min/day, 2 days/week for 12 weeks). The Breakthrough Pain Assessment Tool and Brief Fatigue Inventory were used to evaluate cancer-related pain (CRP) and cancer-related fatigue (CRF), respectively. Regarding CRP variables, the experimental group demonstrated significant improvements in the worst and typical episodes of breakthrough pain, pain distress, and interference with living a normal life compared to the control group. In CRF, there was no significant difference between the groups, although BWV training with therapeutic massage resulted in a significant difference between before and after the intervention. Therefore, our study suggests that BWV training with therapeutic massage is beneficial for improving CRP and CRF in cancer survivors.

On the road to resilience: Epigenetic effects of meditation

Many environmental and lifestyle related factors may influence the physiology of the brain and body by acting on fundamental molecular pathways, such as the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) and the immune system. For example, stressful conditions created by adverse early-life events, unhealthy habits and low socio-economic status may favor the onset of diseases linked to neuroendocrine dysregulation, inflammation and neuroinflammation. Beside pharmacological treatments used in clinical settings, much attention has been given to complementary treatments such as mind-body techniques involving meditation that rely on the activation of inner resources to regain health. At the molecular level, the effects of both stress and meditation are elicited epigenetically through a set of mechanisms that regulate gene expression as well as the circulating neuroendocrine and immune effectors. Epigenetic mechanisms constantly reshape genome activities in response to external stimuli, representing a molecular interface between organism and environment. In the present work, we aimed to review the current knowledge on the correlation between epigenetics, gene expression, stress and its possible antidote, meditation. After introducing the relationship between brain, physiology, and epigenetics, we will proceed to describe three basic epigenetic mechanisms: chromatin covalent modifications, DNA methylation and non-coding RNAs. Subsequently, we will give an overview of the physiological and molecular aspects related to stress. Finally, we will address the epigenetic effects of meditation on gene expression. The results of the studies reported in this review demonstrate that mindful practices modulate the epigenetic landscape, leading to increased resilience. Therefore, these practices can be considered valuable tools that complement pharmacological treatments when coping with pathologies related to stress.

Proposing and evaluating a model of depression, stress, resilience and spirituality in relation to pain in women with breast cancer: Investigating the mediating role of mindfulness

BACKGROUND

Pain experience is one of the most common symptoms of women with breast cancer receiving chemotherapy. It may cause physical and psychological problems and interfere with the treatment process.

AIMS

This study aimed to examine the relationship between depression, stress, resilience and spirituality on the pain symptoms of breast cancer patients during chemotherapy and explore the potential mediating role of mindfulness in this association.

METHOD

Two hundred and forty women with breast cancer receiving chemotherapy from Shiraz University Hospital, were selected and evaluated by a purposive sampling method. The research instruments were Perceived Stress Scale, Beck Depression Questionnaire-2, Mindfulness, Resilience, Spirituality and Pain Questionnaires. The obtained data was analyzed by SPSS software and MPLUS using Spearman correlation coefficient and path analysis.

RESULTS

Based on the findings of direct path analysis, depression, stress, and spirituality showed a significant relationship with mindfulness, but resilience had no significant relationship with mindfulness (p < 0.01). Furthermore, depression, stress, resilience, and mindfulness showed a significant relationship with pain, while spirituality had no significant relationship with pain (p < 0.01). Finally, indirect path analysis revealed mindfulness is a significant mediator of stress and pain (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study suggested a model can be useful in better understanding of the psychological components affecting pain in breast cancer patients, after and during their treatments. It also provided an effective framework to develop and investigate pain-focused and non-pharmacological interventions.

Psychological interventions for women with non-metastatic breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women worldwide. It is a distressing diagnosis and, as a result, considerable research has examined the psychological sequelae of being diagnosed and treated for breast cancer. Breast cancer is associated with increased rates of depression and anxiety and reduced quality of life. As a consequence, multiple studies have explored the impact of psychological interventions on the psychological distress experienced after a diagnosis of breast cancer. This review is an update of a Cochrane Review first published in 2015.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effect of psychological interventions on psychological morbidities and quality of life among women with non-metastatic breast cancer.  SEARCH METHODS: We searched the Cochrane Breast Cancer Group Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (WHO ICTRP) and ClinicalTrials.gov up to 16 March 2021. We also scanned the reference lists of relevant articles.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials that assessed the effectiveness of psychological interventions for women with non-metastatic breast cancer.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently appraised, extracted data from eligible trials, and assessed risk of bias and certainty of the evidence using the GRADE approach. Any disagreement was resolved by discussion. Extracted data included information about participants, methods, the intervention and outcomes.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 60 randomised controlled trials comprising 7998 participants. The most frequent reasons for exclusion were non-randomised trials and the inclusion of women with metastatic disease. The updated review included 7998 randomised women; the original review included 3940 women. A wide range of interventions was evaluated. Most interventions were cognitive- or mindfulness-based, supportive-expressive, and educational. The interventions were mainly delivered face-to-face (56 studies) and in groups (50 studies) rather than individually (10 studies). Most intervention sessions were delivered on a weekly basis with an average duration of 14 hours. Follow-up time ranged from two weeks to 24 months.  Pooled standardised mean differences (SMD) from baseline indicated that the intervention may reduce depression (SMD -0.27, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.52 to -0.02; P = 0.04; 27 studies, 3321 participants, I2 = 91%, low-certainty evidence); anxiety (SMD -0.43, 95% CI -0.68 to -0.17; P = 0.0009; 22 studies, 2702 participants, I2 = 89%, low-certainty evidence); mood disturbance in the intervention group (SMD -0.18, 95% CI -0.31 to -0.04; P = 0.009; 13 studies, 2276 participants, I2 = 56%, low-certainty evidence); and stress (SMD -0.34, 95% (CI) -0.55 to -0.12; P = 0.002; 8 studies, 564 participants, I2 = 31%, low-certainty evidence). The intervention is likely to improve quality of life in the intervention group (SMD 0.78, 95% (CI) 0.32 to 1.24; P = 0.0008; 20 studies, 1747 participants, I2 = 95%, low-certainty evidence). Adverse events were not reported in any of the included studies.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Based on the available evidence, psychological intervention may have produced favourable effects on psychological outcomes, in particular depression, anxiety, mood disturbance and stress. There was also an improvement in quality of life in the psychological intervention group compared to control group. Overall, there was substantial variation across the studies in the range of psychological interventions used, control conditions, measures of the same outcome and timing of follow-up.

Improving biobehavioral health in younger breast cancer survivors: Pathways to Wellness trial secondary outcomes

BACKGROUND

The Pathways to Wellness trial tested the efficacy of 2 interventions for younger breast cancer survivors: mindful awareness practices (MAPs) and survivorship education (SE). This planned secondary analysis examines intervention effects on stress, positive psychological outcomes, and inflammation (Clincaltrials.gov NCT03025139).

METHODS

Women diagnosed with breast cancer at or before age 50 years who had completed treatment and had elevated depressive symptoms were randomly assigned to 6 weeks of MAPs, SE, or wait-list control (WLC). Assessments conducted at pre- and postintervention and at 3- and 6-month follow-up measured general stress perceptions, cancer-related intrusive thoughts and worry, positive affect, meaning and peace in life, altruism and empathy, and markers of inflammation. Analyses compared change in outcomes over time in each intervention group relative to WLC using linear mixed models.

RESULTS

A total 247 women were randomly assigned to MAPs (n = 85), SE (n = 81), or WLC (n = 81). MAPs statistically significantly decreased intrusive thoughts and worry at postintervention and 3-month follow-up relative to WLC (P < .027) and statistically significantly increased positive affect and meaning and peace at postintervention, with positive affect persisting at 3-month follow-up (P < .027). SE statistically significantly decreased intrusive thoughts at 3-month follow-up and statistically significantly increased positive affect at 6-month follow-up relative to WLC (P < .01). Proinflammatory gene expression increased in WLC relative to MAPs (P = .016) but did not differ from SE. There were no intervention effects on other outcomes.

CONCLUSION

MAPs had beneficial effects on psychological and immune outcomes in younger breast cancer survivors and is a promising approach for enhancing biobehavioral health.

Virtual Reality Combined with Artificial Intelligence (VR-AI) Reduces Hot Flashes and Improves Psychological Well-Being in Women with Breast and Ovarian Cancer: A Pilot Study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Breast and ovarian cancers affect the lives of many women worldwide. Female cancer survivors often experience hot flashes, a subjective sensation of heat associated with objective signs of cutaneous vasodilatation and a subsequent drop in core temperature. Breast and Ovarian cancer patients also suffer from sleep difficulties and mental health issues. The present study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Bubble, a novel artificial intelligence-virtual reality (AI-VR) intervention for the treatment of hot flashes in female breast or ovarian cancer patients.

METHODS

Forty-two women with breast and/or ovarian cancer participated in the study. The mean age was 47 years (range: 25-60 years). Patients suffered from hot flashes at different frequencies. They used Bubble, a virtual reality (VR) mobile psychological intervention based on elements from both cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction. The intervention took place in a VR environment, in a winter wonderland setting called Frosty. Patients were instructed to use Bubble at home twice a day (morning and evening) and when experiencing a hot flash. Participants were asked to use the application for 24 consecutive days. Before and after this 24-day period, patients completed self-report questionnaires assessing hot flashes, general psychiatric distress, perceived stress, illness perception, sleep quality, and quality of life.

RESULTS

Between pre- and post-intervention, participants reported a significant reduction in the daily frequency of hot flashes, stress, general psychiatric distress, several domains of QOL, and sleep difficulties, as well as an improvement in illness perception. In addition, they reported very high satisfaction with Bubble. Importantly, both age and baseline levels of psychopathology moderated the effect of Bubble on sleep difficulties.

DISCUSSION

This study showed preliminary evidence for the potential of VR interventions in alleviating hot flashes and accompanying mental distress among those coping with breast and ovarian cancer. VR is a powerful therapeutic tool, able to address mind-body aspects in a direct, vivid way. More studies are needed in order to fully understand the potential of this unique intervention.