An online mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program reduced anxiety and depression in breast cancer survivors with elevated anxiety. In a randomized trial, 68 survivors were assigned to an 8-week online MBSR course or a waitlist control. MBSR participants showed significantly greater reductions in anxiety (average 4.13 points lower on the GAD-7) and depression (average 6.03 points lower on the PHQ-9) compared to controls, with benefits lasting through 8 months of follow-up. The proportion of MBSR participants with clinically significant anxiety dropped from 96% before the program to 38% at 8 months, while control group rates stayed around 88%. No significant differences were found for fatigue, insomnia, cancer worry, or vasomotor symptoms.
Among female cancer survivors in the USA, meditation and yoga use remains uncommon: 21.5% used meditation and 16.8% used yoga, based on 2022 National Health Interview Survey data from 1,945 women. Most survivors were White (82.9%), 65 or older (55.2%), and did not report frequent or high anxiety (63.9%). For survivors with high or frequent anxiety, those living in large central metro areas or reporting other cancers had higher odds of using yoga. Tailoring may be needed to reach diverse survivors who could benefit from evidence-based mind-body practices.