Carlson, L. E., & Garland, S. N. (2005). Impact of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) on sleep, mood, stress and fatigue symptoms in cancer outpatients. International Journal of Behavioral Medicine, 12, 278–285.

The mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) meditation program included relaxation, meditation, gentle yoga, and daily practice. Patients attended eight sessions and received a 52-page booklet with weekly instructions plus an audiotape of the meditations. Outcomes were sleep, mood, stress, and fatigue.

• The sample was comprised of 63 patients (49 women, 14 men).
• Mean age was 54 years (range 32–78).
• Patients had mixed cancer diagnoses and stages.

• Outpatient
• Canada

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

The study used a prospective, repeated measures, quasiexperimental, feasibility design with one group.

Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI)

At pretreatment, 91% of the sample had a PSQI of 5 or more and 51% had a score of 10 or more. At posttreatment, 27% reported a PSQI of greater than 10. Sleep disturbance was significantly reduced, and subjective sleep quality was improved.

• The study lacked a control or comparison group; also, only a subjective sleep measurement was used. The relative importance of different components of the intervention is not known.
• Training in delivering the intervention is needed.
• Cost is incurred for a space for the class and for an instructor.