Mindfulness-Based Interventions in Oncology: Effects on Psychological Well-Being and Coping A Narrative Review

Abstract

Cancer diagnosis and treatment are frequently associated with significant psychological
distress, including anxiety, depression, fatigue, emotional dysregulation, and reduced quality
of life. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs), such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction
(MBSR) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), have increasingly been
integrated into psycho-oncology care as supportive therapeutic approaches. The present
narrative review synthesizes current evidence regarding the effectiveness of mindfulness-
based interventions among cancer patients and survivors. Literature from peer-reviewed
studies published between 2010 and 2025 was reviewed using databases including PubMed,
PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Findings from randomized
controlled trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses consistently indicate that
mindfulness-based interventions contribute to reductions in anxiety, depression,
psychological distress, cancer-related fatigue, and sleep disturbances while improving coping
abilities, emotional regulation, and overall quality of life. Despite promising findings,
methodological limitations such as heterogeneity in intervention protocols, reliance on self-
report measures, and limited long-term follow-up remain evident. Overall, the evidence
supports mindfulness-based interventions as valuable complementary approaches within
supportive oncology care. Future research should focus on standardized intervention protocols
and long-term outcomes to further strengthen the evidence base.