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Esch T, Stefano GB, Michaelsen MM. The foundations of mind-body medicine: Love, good relationships, and happiness modulate stress and promote health. Stress Health 2024:e3387. [PMID: 38442034 DOI: 10.1002/smi.3387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Although stress is an everyday fact of life, it can lead to poor health outcomes, particularly when intense or prolonged. However, humans have unique cognitive abilities and thus may be able to combat stress by engaging critical psychological defence mechanisms. In this review, we discuss the field of mind-body medicine, which focuses on improving our understanding of the mechanisms underlying this response and developing interventions that might be used to limit the effects of chronic stress. We review the findings of past and current research in this field that has focused on the impact of psychological, emotional, and behavioural factors, including love, social connectedness, and happiness on human health and the amelioration of pain as well as other signs and symptoms of disease. While these studies have not yet led to confirmed, quantifiable conclusions, the overall weight of evidence suggests that happiness (defined as a personal sense of well-being) may be directly associated with improved health parameters and reductions in debilitating symptoms. Collectively, these findings suggest that interventions designed to promote stress mitigation, notably those that encourage social activity, may lead to significant improvements in human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Esch
- Institute for Integrative Health Care and Health Promotion, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - George B Stefano
- Institute for Integrative Health Care and Health Promotion, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
- First Faculty of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry of the First Faculty of Medicine and General Teaching Hospital, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Maren M Michaelsen
- Institute for Integrative Health Care and Health Promotion, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
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Kuballa L, Kessler CS, Kandil FI, von Scheidt C, Meinköhn M, Koch B, Wischnewsky M, Michalsen A, Jeitler M. Effects of an Integrative Day Care Clinic Program with a Focus on Nature Therapy in a Hospital Park Setting on Quality of Life in Oncological Patients-A Non-Randomized Controlled Study. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4595. [PMID: 37760564 PMCID: PMC10527019 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15184595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer often causes long-term physical and psychological impairments. Lifestyle modification and nature-based interventions (NBIs) can have a positive impact on patients' quality of life (QOL). This participants-blinded, non-randomized controlled study assessed parameters at weeks 0, 12, and 24, including, as a primary endpoint, QOL in cancer patients on the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G) at week 12. QOL in breast cancer patients, fatigue, well-being, stress, anxiety/depression, socio-psychological well-being, benefits of nature interaction, insomnia, self-efficacy, mindfulness, and self-compassion were assessed as secondary endpoints. N = 107 cancer patients (96.3% women; 52.5 ± 9.3 years, 80.4% breast cancer) were assigned to either a 12-week nature-based (NDC; n = 56) or conventional (DC; n = 51) oncology day care clinic program, whereby the assignment group was not known to the participants. There was no significant group difference for the primary endpoint. At week 24, QOL, fatigue, mindfulness and self-compassion scores were significantly higher, and at weeks 12 and 24, the insomnia score was significantly lower in NDC compared to DC. In conclusion, this study indicates positive and clinically relevant effects of the program on QOL, fatigue, and psychological parameters. NBIs seem to have a more pronounced effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Kuballa
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (C.S.K.); (F.I.K.); (M.M.); (A.M.); (M.J.)
| | - Christian S. Kessler
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (C.S.K.); (F.I.K.); (M.M.); (A.M.); (M.J.)
- Department of Internal Medicine and Nature-Based Therapies, Immanuel Hospital Berlin, 14109 Berlin, Germany; (C.v.S.); (B.K.)
| | - Farid I. Kandil
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (C.S.K.); (F.I.K.); (M.M.); (A.M.); (M.J.)
| | - Christel von Scheidt
- Department of Internal Medicine and Nature-Based Therapies, Immanuel Hospital Berlin, 14109 Berlin, Germany; (C.v.S.); (B.K.)
| | - Meline Meinköhn
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (C.S.K.); (F.I.K.); (M.M.); (A.M.); (M.J.)
| | - Barbara Koch
- Department of Internal Medicine and Nature-Based Therapies, Immanuel Hospital Berlin, 14109 Berlin, Germany; (C.v.S.); (B.K.)
| | - Manfred Wischnewsky
- Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, University Bremen, 28359 Bremen, Germany;
| | - Andreas Michalsen
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (C.S.K.); (F.I.K.); (M.M.); (A.M.); (M.J.)
- Department of Internal Medicine and Nature-Based Therapies, Immanuel Hospital Berlin, 14109 Berlin, Germany; (C.v.S.); (B.K.)
| | - Michael Jeitler
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (C.S.K.); (F.I.K.); (M.M.); (A.M.); (M.J.)
- Department of Internal Medicine and Nature-Based Therapies, Immanuel Hospital Berlin, 14109 Berlin, Germany; (C.v.S.); (B.K.)
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Leonhardt J, Winkler M, Kollikowski A, Schiffmann L, Quenzer A, Einsele H, Löffler C. Mind-body-medicine in oncology-from patient needs to tailored programs and interventions: a cross-sectional study. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1140693. [PMID: 37484070 PMCID: PMC10357839 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1140693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction National and international guidelines recommend early integration of evidence-based multimodal interventions and programs, especially with a focus on relaxation techniques and other Mind-Body-based methods to maintain the quality of life of oncology patients, improve treatment tolerability, and promote healthy lifestyle behaviors. Consequently, we aim to understand what drives patients and how they navigate integrative medicine to best advise them. This study aimed to detect possible topics of particular interest to patients and identify the patient groups that could benefit most from further programs. Furthermore, we aimed to investigate if patients are open-minded toward integrative oncology concepts and learn about their motivational level to maintain or change behavior. Methods Between August 2019 and October 2020 we surveyed patients undergoing oncological therapy in a university oncological outpatient center using a custom-developed questionnaire based on established Mind-Body Medicine concepts. Results We included 294 patients with various cancers. More than half reported problems sleeping through (61%) and 42% felt stressed frequently, invariably rating this as detrimental to their health. Moreover, a slight majority (52%) felt physically limited due to their disease and only 30% performed defined exercise programs. Women were significantly more likely to feel stressed and reported with alarming frequency that they often feel "everything was up to them." The 40-65-year-olds reported significantly less restful sleep, more stress and were more dissatisfied with their situation. However, this group already used natural remedies most frequently and was most often motivated to use relaxation techniques in the next 6 months. The lower the perceived individual energy level (EL), the less frequently patients did sport, the more frequently they felt their disease impaired their activity, mostly feeling stressed and tense. We also found significant associations between negative emotions/thoughts and the variables "sleep," "use of relaxation techniques," "personal stress perception," and "successful lifestyle modification." Conclusion Mind-Body programs that focus on patient's individual resources, with tools to explore impairing patterns of self-perception and cognitive biases, can be a valuable resource for oncology patients and should therefore be part of an integrative medical treatment concept.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Leonhardt
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Marcela Winkler
- Department of Natural and Integrative Medicine, Robert-Bosch-Hospital, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Anne Kollikowski
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Lisa Schiffmann
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Anne Quenzer
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Hermann Einsele
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Claudia Löffler
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
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Koppold DA, Kandil FI, Güttler O, Müller A, Steckhan N, Meiß S, Breinlinger C, Nelle E, Hartmann AM, Jeitler M, Hanslian E, Fischer JM, Michalsen A, Kessler CS. Effects of Prolonged Fasting during Inpatient Multimodal Treatment on Pain and Functional Parameters in Knee and Hip Osteoarthritis: A Prospective Exploratory Observational Study. Nutrients 2023; 15:2695. [PMID: 37375597 DOI: 10.3390/nu15122695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Preliminary clinical data suggest that pain reduction through fasting may be effective for different diagnoses. This uncontrolled observational clinical study examined the effects of prolonged modified fasting on pain and functional parameters in hip and knee osteoarthritis. Patients admitted to the inpatient department of Internal Medicine and Nature-based Therapies of the Immanuel Hospital Berlin between February 2018 and December 2020 answered questionnaires at the beginning and end of inpatient treatment, as well as at 3, 6, and 12 months after discharge. Additionally, selected blood and anthropometric parameters, as well as subjective pain ratings, were routinely assessed during the inpatient stay. Fasting was the only common intervention for all patients, being performed as part of a multimodal integrative treatment program, with a daily caloric intake of <600 kcal for 7.7 ± 1.7 days. N = 125 consecutive patients were included. The results revealed an amelioration of overall symptomatology (WOMAC Index score: -14.8 ± 13.31; p < 0.001; d = 0.78) and pain alleviation (NRS Pain: -2.7 ± 1.98, p < 0.001, d = 1.48). Pain medication was reduced, stopped, or replaced by herbal remedies in 36% of patients. Improvements were also observed in secondary outcome parameters, including increased quality of life (WHO-5: +4.5 ± 4.94, p < 0.001, d = 0.94), reduced anxiety (HADS-A: -2.1 ± 2.91, p < 0001, d = 0.55) and depression (HADS-D: -2.3 ± 3.01, p < 0.001, d = 0.65), and decreases in body weight (-3.6 kg ± 1.65, p < 0.001, d = 0.21) and blood pressure (systolic: -6.2 ± 15.93, p < 0.001, d = 0.43; diastolic: -3.7 ± 10.55, p < 0.001, d = 0.43). The results suggest that patients with osteoarthritis of the lower extremities may benefit from prolonged fasting as part of a multimodal integrative treatment to improve quality of life, pain, and disease-specific functional parameters. Confirmatory randomized controlled trials are warranted to further investigate these hypotheses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela A Koppold
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine and Nature-Based Therapies, Immanuel Hospital Berlin, 14109 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Oncology and Hematology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Farid I Kandil
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Oncology and Hematology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Oliver Güttler
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Anna Müller
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- State Institute of Forensic Medicine Berlin, 10559 Berlin, Germany
| | - Nico Steckhan
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Connected Healthcare, Hasso Plattner Institute, University of Potsdam, 14482 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Sara Meiß
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Carolin Breinlinger
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine and Nature-Based Therapies, Immanuel Hospital Berlin, 14109 Berlin, Germany
| | - Esther Nelle
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Anika M Hartmann
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Jeitler
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine and Nature-Based Therapies, Immanuel Hospital Berlin, 14109 Berlin, Germany
| | - Etienne Hanslian
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jan Moritz Fischer
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Michalsen
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine and Nature-Based Therapies, Immanuel Hospital Berlin, 14109 Berlin, Germany
| | - Christian S Kessler
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine and Nature-Based Therapies, Immanuel Hospital Berlin, 14109 Berlin, Germany
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[Mind-body medicine in integrative uro-oncology : Studies and areas of application]. UROLOGIE (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 62:27-33. [PMID: 36471013 DOI: 10.1007/s00120-022-01978-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mind-body medicine (MBM) complements somatically oriented medical practice with behavioral and lifestyle-oriented approaches: Thus, health-promoting attitudes and behaviors are strengthened in everyday life. In integrative oncology, it helps promote emotional and physical well-being. RESEARCH QUESTION Guideline recommendations and the current study situation in integrative uro-oncology are presented. RESULTS During and after completion of primary therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) shows positive effects on anxiety, stress, and fatigue. However, it appears that the offer needs to be better tailored to the needs of prostate cancer patients. The effects of yoga are well documented, especially on fatigue, quality of life, and sexual function. Prostate cancer patients also showed a significantly increased immune response after completing a yoga intervention. Tai Ji Quan/Qigong improve quality of life, fatigue, and other symptoms. Hypnosis-especially in the palliative setting-mitigates anxiety, and relaxation techniques alleviate sleep problems and nausea/vomiting. Multimodal services improve quality of life on numerous levels. Higher resilience correlates with better quality of life and stronger male self-esteem. CONCLUSIONS MBSR alleviates many symptoms but needs to be adapted to the needs of prostate cancer patients; yoga and Tai Ji Chuan/Qigong alleviate fatigue and improve quality of life. Hypnosis and relaxation training reduce nausea/vomiting, and improve sleep and anxiety. Resilience promotion is important to support oncological patients.
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Esch T, Stefano GB. The BERN Framework of Mind-Body Medicine: Integrating Self-Care, Health Promotion, Resilience, and Applied Neuroscience. Front Integr Neurosci 2022; 16:913573. [PMID: 35910341 PMCID: PMC9330052 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2022.913573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Mind-body medicine (MBM) focuses on improving our understanding of how the interactions between the brain, mind, body, and behavior can be used to promote health. In this narrative review, we present the basic principles of MBM, including the introduction of a rational framework for the implementation of MBM-based interventions. We also discuss the contributions of MBM to motivation and reward systems in the brain including those that may specifically involve the mitochondria.Results: MBM can be used to promote health in patients with chronic diseases, especially conditions identified as lifestyle-related. MBM builds on salutogenesis, which is a paradigm that focuses on health (as opposed to disease) determinants and the development of individual resilience and coherence factors as a means to reduce stress, decrease the burden of disease, and improve the quality of life. This approach involves several well-known principles of self-healing and self-care. MBM interventions typically include behavioral modification techniques in conjunction with cognitive work focused on stress regulation, exercise, relaxation, meditation, and nutrition. We suggest the use of the acronym “BERN” (Behavior, Exercise, Relaxation, and Nutrition) to summarize the operational framework of this approach.Discussion: Different BERN techniques act via shared autoregulatory central nervous system (CNS) reward and motivation circuitries. These systems rely on numerous neurobiological signaling pathways with overlapping effector molecules that converge, e.g., on nitric oxide (NO) as a common effector molecule. NO is critically coupled to reward physiology, stress reduction, and self-regulation as it modulates the responses of various mitochondrial, nuclear, and chromosomal processes within brain cells. NO has also been implicated in relevant outcomes (e.g., the placebo response).Conclusions: MBM interventions typically follow the BERN model and aim to strengthen health and resilience, and reduce stress. The mechanisms of action of these processes involve the CNS reward systems and correlate with placebo and self-healing pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Esch
- Institute for Integrative Health Care and Health Promotion, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
- *Correspondence: Tobias Esch
| | - George B. Stefano
- Center for Cognitive and Molecular Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
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Savaş BB, Märtens B, Cramer H, Voiss P, Longolius J, Weiser A, Ziert Y, Christiansen H, Steinmann D. Effects of an Interdisciplinary Integrative Oncology Group-Based Program to Strengthen Resilience and Improve Quality of Life in Cancer Patients: Results of a Prospective Longitudinal Single-Center Study. Integr Cancer Ther 2022; 21:15347354221081770. [PMID: 35225054 PMCID: PMC8891834 DOI: 10.1177/15347354221081770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Patients with cancer receiving oncological treatment often suffer from a reduced quality of life (QoL) and resilience. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of an interdisciplinary integrative oncology group-based program on resilience and quality of life in patients with cancer during or after conventional oncological therapy. Methods: This prospective longitudinal single-center study evaluated the resilience (Resilience Scale), quality of life (EORTC-QLQ C30), anxiety, depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), and distress levels (Distress Thermometer) of 60 patients with cancer who participated in a 10-week interdisciplinary integrative oncology group-based program during or after cancer treatment in outpatient clinics. An average of 12 (range 11-13) patients participated in each 10-week group. The program included recommendations for diet, stress management, relaxation, and exercise, as well as naturopathic self-help strategies and psychosocial support. Results: There were slight increases in global quality of life scores (week 0: 58.05 ± 20.05 vs week 10: 63.13 ± 18.51, n = 59, P = .063, d = −.25) and resilience scores (week 0: 63.50 ± 13.14 vs week 10: 66.15 ± 10.17, n = 52, P = .222, d = −.17) after the group program compared to before; however, these changes were not statistically significant and had small effect sizes. Patients with at least moderate anxiety symptoms (P = .022, d = .42) and low resilience (P = .006, d = −.54) benefited most from the program. The patients reported no relevant side effects or adverse events from the program. Conclusions: No significant effects on global quality of life or resilience were found in the general sample; notably, patients with anxiety and low initial resilience benefited the most from the program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burcu Babadağ Savaş
- Department of Radiation Therapy and Special Oncology, Medical School Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Bettina Märtens
- Department of Radiation Therapy and Special Oncology, Medical School Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Petra Voiss
- University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Julia Longolius
- Department of Radiation Therapy and Special Oncology, Medical School Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Axel Weiser
- Department of Organisation, Innovation and Quality of Management, Medical School Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Yvonne Ziert
- Institute of Biometrics, Medical School Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Hans Christiansen
- Department of Radiation Therapy and Special Oncology, Medical School Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Diana Steinmann
- Department of Radiation Therapy and Special Oncology, Medical School Hannover, Hannover, Germany
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Schröder ML, Stöckigt B, Binting S, Tissen-Diabaté T, Bangemann N, Goerling U, Kröz M, Blohmer JU, Ortiz M, Brinkhaus B. Feasibility and Possible Effects of Mindful Walking and Moderate Walking in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study With a Nested Qualitative Study Part. Integr Cancer Ther 2022; 21:15347354211066067. [PMID: 35045736 PMCID: PMC8777370 DOI: 10.1177/15347354211066067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Breast cancer (BC) survivors often suffer from disease- and therapy-related long-term side-effects. The study aim was to explore the feasibility, adherence, and individual experiences as well as possible effects of 2 different walking interventions in BC patients. METHODS This randomized controlled, pragmatic pilot trial included a qualitative study component. BC patients were randomized to either mindful walking (MFW) with mindfulness exercises and walking or moderate walking (MW) alone in weekly group sessions over 8 weeks. After 8 and 16 weeks, satisfaction, and self-perceived effectiveness as well as different health-related outcomes including health-related (WHOQOL-BREF) and disease-specific quality of life (FACT-G), perceived stress (PSQ) and cancer-related fatigue (CFS-D) were assessed. ANCOVA was used to evaluate differences in study outcomes. Qualitative data included 4 focus group interviews including 20 patients and were analyzed using a directed qualitative content analysis approach. RESULTS Altogether, 51 women (mean age 55.8 years (SD 10.9)) were randomized (n = 24 MFW; n = 27 MW). Both groups would recommend the course to other BC patients (MFW 88.9%; MW 95.2%) and showed possible improvements from baseline to week 8, without statistically significant difference between groups: WHOQOL-BREF (MFW: adjusted mean 65.4 (95% confidence interval (CI), 57.1-73.7); MW: 61.6 (53.6-69.6)); FACT-G (MFW: 76.0 (71.5-80.5); MW: 73.0 (68.5-77.4)); PSQ (MFW: 45.3 (40.5-50.1); MW: 45.4 (40.8-50.0)); CFS-D (MFW: 24.3 (20.8-27.8); MW: 25.5 (22.1-28.8)). Improvements lasted until the 16-weeks follow-up. The qualitative analysis suggested that MFW primarily promoted mindfulness, self-care, and acceptability in BC patients, whereas MW activated and empowered the patients as a result of the physical exercise. CONCLUSION Both study interventions were positively evaluated by patients and showed possible pre-post effects in disease-specific health-related outcomes without differences between groups. The qualitative analysis results indicate that different resources and coping strategies were addressed by the 2 study interventions. TRIAL REGISTRATION DKRS00011521; prospectively registered 21.12.2016; https://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do?navigationId=trial.HTML&TRIAL_ID=DRKS00011521.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Ute Goerling
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin,
Berlin, Germany
| | - Matthias Kröz
- Research Institute Havelhoehe, Berlin,
Germany
- University Witten/Herdecke, Witten,
Germany
- Hospital Arlesheim, Switzerland
| | | | - Miriam Ortiz
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin,
Berlin, Germany
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Mikolasek M, Witt CM, Barth J. Effects and Implementation of a Mindfulness and Relaxation App for Patients With Cancer: Mixed Methods Feasibility Study. JMIR Cancer 2021; 7:e16785. [PMID: 33439132 PMCID: PMC7840285 DOI: 10.2196/16785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2019] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer diagnosis and cancer treatment can cause high levels of distress, which is often not sufficiently addressed in standard medical care. Therefore, a variety of supportive nonpharmacological treatments have been suggested to reduce distress in patients with cancer. However, not all patients use these interventions because of limited access or lack of awareness. To overcome these barriers, mobile health may be a promising way to deliver the respective supportive treatments. Objective The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects and implementation of a mindfulness and relaxation app intervention for patients with cancer as well as patients’ adherence to such an intervention. Methods In this observational feasibility study with a mixed methods approach, patients with cancer were recruited through the web and through hospitals in Switzerland. All enrolled patients received access to a mindfulness and relaxation app. Patients completed self-reported outcomes (general health, health-related quality of life, anxiety, depression, distress, mindfulness, and fear of progression) at baseline and at weeks 4, 10, and 20. The frequency of app exercise usage was gathered directly through the app to assess the adherence of patients. In addition, we conducted interviews with 5 health professionals for their thoughts on the implementation of the app intervention in standard medical care. We analyzed patients’ self-reported outcomes using linear mixed models (LMMs) and qualitative data with content analysis. Results A total of 100 patients with cancer (74 female) with a mean age of 53.2 years (SD 11.6) participated in the study, of which 25 patients used the app regularly until week 20. LMM analyses revealed improvements in anxiety (P=.04), distress (P<.001), fatigue (P=.01), sleep disturbance (P=.02), quality of life (P=.03), and mindfulness (P<.001) over the course of 20 weeks. Further LMM analyses revealed a larger improvement in distress (P<.001), a moderate improvement in anxiety (P=.001), and a larger improvement in depression (P=.03) in patients with high levels of symptoms at baseline in the respective domains. The interviews revealed that the health professionals perceived the app as a helpful addition to standard care. They also made suggestions for improvements, which could facilitate the implementation of and adherence to such an app. Conclusions This study indicates that a mindfulness and relaxation app for patients with cancer can be a feasible and effective way to deliver a self-care intervention, especially for highly distressed patients. Future studies should investigate if the appeal of the app can be increased with more content, and the effectiveness of such an intervention needs to be tested in a randomized controlled trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Mikolasek
- Institute for Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Claudia Margitta Witt
- Institute for Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Center for Integrative Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jürgen Barth
- Institute for Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Abstract
AbstractThis paper contains a narrative review of the literature in the field of school-based mind–body interventions (MBIs). The aim of the current review is to verify whether the school-based MBI programs implemented in primary and secondary schools over the past 5 years are effective in helping schoolchildren cope with stress-related, behavioral, and affective issues, as well as improve stress response and school performance. All articles were retrieved using a number of databases. Inclusion criteria comprised qualitative and quantitative, English language, and peer-reviewed studies among third graders (8–9 years old) to twelfth graders (17–18 years old), including special needs pupils. Qualitative studies were limited to pupils’ experience only. Ten studies meeting the criteria for this review were assessed. The school-based interventions included yoga-based programs and mindfulness training. Evidence was evaluated and summarized. Across the reviewed studies, we found support for MBIs as part of school curricula to reduce negative effects of stress and promote overall well-being with caveats to consider in choosing specific programs. The practical implications of the current review include considerations related to the incorporation of MBIs in school curricula, which would likely benefit schoolchildren.
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11
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Murphy A, Chu RW, Drummond FJ. A cost analysis of a community-based support centre for cancer patients and their families in Ireland: the EVeCANs study. Support Care Cancer 2020; 29:619-625. [PMID: 32415384 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-020-05508-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Cancer patients and their families experience a range of physical, psychological and financial adverse effects. Community-based cancer centres offer a range of services and interventions, free of charge, to support those affected by cancer. While shown to be effective, there is a lack of information on the costs of these services. Our aim was to estimate the resource impact of a community-based cancer support centre. Over a 7-month period, there were 2032 contacts with 238 clients whose average age was 60 years. The most frequently used services were transport to treatment (20%), complementary therapies (48%), exercise classes (10%) and counselling (9%). This cost analysis estimated total annual cost to provide all services was €313,744. Average annual cost per person was €1138. Current uptake at the centre represents 8% of all cancer incidences in seven counties surrounding the centre. If uptake increases by 10%, scenario analyses predict an increase in total costs increase to €429,043 and a decrease in costs per patient to €915. As cancer incidences increase, the need for supportive care is growing. Community-based services have been established to meet these needs and fill this gap in national health services. Long-term sustainability of these centres is uncertain as they are entirely reliant on donations and volunteers. This analysis estimates the costs of one such community-based cancer support centre, for the first time in Ireland. Findings can be used to inform future planning of cancer supportive care services, including establishing links between tertiary and community-based centres, and cost effectiveness analyses, nationally and internationally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aileen Murphy
- Department of Economics, Cork University Business School, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Ryan W Chu
- School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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12
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Esch T. [Self-healing in health-care: Using the example of mind-body medicine]. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2020; 63:577-585. [PMID: 32274538 DOI: 10.1007/s00103-020-03133-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Mind-body medicine (MBM) is based on the assumption that interactions between the brain, mind, body, and behavior can be used to activate health-promoting pathways towards better health. It includes behavioral medical approaches and techniques in conjunction with exercise, relaxation, stress regulation, and nutrition. MBM and MBM interventions are well-established in the US healthcare system. This also includes an exploration of their underlying mechanisms. In Germany, too, a growing body of interventions are now summarized under this generic term.In this narrative review, the emergence of MBM is illuminated in the context of historical developments as well as against the background of the meditation research that has been emerging since the 1970s and the investigation of the stress phenomenon. References to basic research including neurobiological reward/placebo physiology are presented. Distinctions to psychotherapy are made and an implementation framework is described.MBM is related to health promotion and the therapy of chronic, especially lifestyle-related diseases. It is based on the salutogenesis approach, i.e., a paradigm that seeks to explore and reinforce health determinants and resistance resources (individual resilience and coherence factors) and strives to reduce stress. This approach corresponds to self-healing or self-care principles. Neurobiologically, it is associated with the placebo effect. MBM interventions typically follow the BERN model (behavior-exercise-relaxation-nutrition).As a facilitator of self-healing and self-care, MBM can be professionally trained and empowered. For doing so, "health promotion experts" are used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Esch
- Universitätsambulanz für Integrative Gesundheitsversorgung und Naturheilkunde (UnIG), Institut für Integrative Gesundheitsversorgung und Gesundheitsförderung (IGVF), Fakultät für Gesundheit/Department für Humanmedizin, Universität Witten/Herdecke, Alfred-Herrhausen-Straße 44, 58448, Witten, Deutschland.
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13
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Tillery R, McGrady ME. Do complementary and integrative medicine therapies reduce healthcare utilization among oncology patients? A systematic review of the literature and recommendations. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2018; 36:1-8. [PMID: 30322499 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2018.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 06/24/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Complementary and integrative medicine (CIM) is frequently used by oncology teams for reducing physical and emotional side-effects related to cancer treatment. In light of the changing healthcare system, evidence is needed regarding the economic implications of these interventions. The purpose of this study was to: (1) systematically examine the literature for links between CIM interventions and healthcare utilization (2) provide recommendations for growing this area of research. METHOD PubMed and EBSCO databases were reviewed for articles reporting on healthcare utilization associated with CIM therapy use in oncology populations. CIM intervention characteristics and healthcare utilization were extracted and summarized from 7 articles meeting inclusion criteria. RESULTS Studies included various CIM modalities. Most studies targeted physical symptoms (i.e., pain, infection, nausea/vomiting; n = 4). Healthcare utilization included medication use/cost (n = 4) and hospitalization length/cost (n = 5). All four studies (prospective/retrospective between-group, n = 2; within-subject pre-post, n = 1; RCT, n = 1) examining medication reduction noted decreased medication costs or use. Mixed findings emerged for studies examining hospitalizations (retrospective between-group, n = 2; within-subject pre-post, n = 1; RCT, n = 2), with only one study (retrospective between-group) indicating lower hospitalization duration in the CIM group. CONCLUSIONS Findings indicate the potential for CIM therapy to reduce healthcare utilization in oncology populations, particularly medication use. However, this research is limited both in size and quality. To increase the uptake of these interventions and to advocate for insurance coverage of CIM interventions, high quality economic evaluations are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Tillery
- Patient and Family Wellness Center, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Division of Behavioral Medicine and Clinical Psychology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
| | - Meghan E McGrady
- Patient and Family Wellness Center, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Division of Behavioral Medicine and Clinical Psychology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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Muñoz FV, Larkey L. THE CREATIVE PSYCHOSOCIAL GENOMIC HEALING EXPERIENCE (CPGHE) AND GENE EXPRESSION IN BREAST CANCER PATIENTS: A FEASIBILITY STUDY. ADVANCES IN INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 2018; 5:9-14. [PMID: 30271706 PMCID: PMC6157740 DOI: 10.1016/j.aimed.2018.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Biomarkers associated with inflammation and immune function are increasingly being used to examine mechanisms of the effects of mind-body therapies. Less researched are biomarkers associated with cognitive and executive functioning in the study of mind-body therapy mechanisms and effects. This study explored the feasibility of recruiting breast cancer patients (BCPs) and implementation fidelity of participation in a research project utilizing the 4-stage Creative Psychosocial Genomic Healing Experience (CPGHE), a mind-body protocol that is theorized to create epigenetic effects via targeted psychological change in emotional triggers in coping with cancer. METHODS Eight BCPs were identified as eligible (stages I, II, III, early phases of treatment) and five consented to one of two intervention groups (allocated to a single session or two sessions of CPGHE). Blood draws were examined pre- and post- intervention for a stress/inflammation gene expression marker, Nuclear Factor kappa-B (NF-kB), and three markers associated with synaptic plasticity undergirding cognitive and executive functioning: Early Growth Response 1 (EGR1), activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated protein (Arc), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). RESULTS One consented BCP dropped out due to illness. The remaining four adhered to the 4-stage CPGHE protocol and found the CPGHE experience beneficial. Blood samples for the gene expression results were collected and processed according to planned protocol without incident. CONCLUSION Implementing the CPGHE and achieving good adherence among a sample of BCPs is feasible. Processing of blood samples collected from BCPs for gene expression data is also feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco V Muñoz
- Arizona State University, College of Nursing and Health, Innovation Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center, Lewis Family, Cancer Care Center
| | - Linda Larkey
- Arizona State University, College of Nursing and Health Innovation
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