Mindfulness-based intervention in relation to wellness, emotional wellbeing and quality of life in breast cancer patients

Pages: 700-705
Fatemeh Abdollahi and Mahmood S. Khan (Department of Psychology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh)

Breast cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer in female worldwide, with almost 1.7 million new cases diagnosed in 2012. This represents about 12% of all new cancer cases and 25% of all cancers in female. Emotional well being is just as essential as the wellness of cancer patients. Health and wellness are an unique state of mind that begins with a conscious decision to shape a healthy lifestyle and adopt it as a priority. It is important to recognize that health and wellness are crucial in personal satisfaction and optimizing quality of life. The diagnosis of a serious illness, such as cancer, may be a time when emotional concerns may need to be addressed. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship among mindfulness-based intervention, emotional wellbeing, wellness and quality of life in patients of breast cancer. Mindfulness is the intentional, accepting and non-judgmental focus of one’s attention on the emotions, thoughts and sensations occurring in the present moment. Review of the research literature indicated that mindfulness-based intervention was a significant predictor of quality of life, emotional wellbeing and wellness. The present study collated results from various studies, to demonstrate the potential efficacy of mindfulness-based interventions as it could be applied to patients with breast cancer to improve emotional wellbeing, wellness and quality of life. Clinical implications exist for counselors, psychologist and health care. Further research investigating possible moderating acceptance of mindfulness-based intervention among patients of breast cancer is needed.