Effectiveness of Integrated Mindfulness-Based Fitness Training Program in Ameliorating Physical Symptoms and Survivor Concerns in Patients With Breast Cancer: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: Patients with breast cancer typically experience both mental and physical distress after aggressive treatments. Some studies have explored the use of integrated interventions, such as mindfulness-based or exercise-based approaches, to reduce these symptoms. However, the results of these studies have been conflicting.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an integrated mindfulness-based fitness training (MBFT) program in addressing overactive bladder, fear of cancer recurrence, and female sexual function in patients with breast cancer.

Methods: Fifty patients with breast cancer were either assigned to an 8-week MBFT group or a waitlist control group. The postintervention and preintervention scores were compared using descriptive analysis of the data set, as well as paired and independent t tests.

Results: There was no significant improvement in overactive bladder symptoms. Significant differences were observed in survivor concerns for items related to future diagnostic tests (t = 2.667, P = .024; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.120-1.335), another type of cancer (t = 2.667, P = .024; 95% CI, 0.120-1.335), cancer coming back (t = 4.183, P = .002; 95% CI, 0.297-0.975), dying (t = 2.609, P = .026; 95% CI, 0.093-1.180), and my health (t = 2.887, P = .016; 95% CI, 0.104-0.805). A significant difference was found in the item measuring overall sexual life satisfaction (t = -3.162, P = .013) and sexual desire (MBFT vs waitlist control group, 2.00 vs 1.18; P = .023).

Conclusion: Mindfulness-based fitness training interventions were effective in enhancing the well-being of patients with breast cancer by reducing fear of recurrence and enhancing sexual function. These findings support the use of MBFT as complementary therapy.

Implications for practice: Healthcare providers should carefully assess the individual needs and preferences of each patient and tailor interventions accordingly. In addition, integrating multiple approaches may be more effective in reducing distress.