Carlson, L. E., Speca, M., Patel, K. D., & Goodey, E. (2003). Mindfulness-based stress reduction in relation to quality of life, mood, symptoms of stress, and immune parameters in breast and prostate cancer outpatients. Psychosomatic Medicine, 65, 571–581.

The mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) meditation program included relaxation, meditation, gentle yoga, and daily practice. Patients received a 52-page booklet with weekly instructions and an audiotape of the meditations. Patients attended eight weekly, 90-minute group sessions plus a three-hour silent retreat on Saturdays on weeks 6 and 7. Outcomes were quality of life (QOL), mood, symptoms of stress, and immune and hormone parameters.

• Pretest, the sample was comprised of 59 patients (49 patients with stage 0, I, or II breast cancer and 10 with early stage prostate cancer).
• Posttest, the sample was comprised of 42 patients.

• Outpatient
• Canada

Patients were undergoing the long-term follow-up phase of care.

The study used a one-group, pre- and posttest design.

European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnare (EORTC QLQ-C30) sleep disturbance subscale

Significant improvements were reported in sleep quality.

• The study lacked control of the comparison group.
• The relative importance of different components of the intervention is not known. Improvement in sleep was not correlated with the degree of program attendance or minutes of home practice.
• Training in delivering the intervention is needed.
• Cost is incurred for a space for the class and an instructor.