Mindfulness-based interventions for cancer patients in China: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

In this study, we sought to evaluate the efficacy of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) for anxiety, depression, and quality of life (QoL) among cancer patients in China. Two independent researchers systematically searched major databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining MBIs’ effectiveness regarding anxiety, depression, and QoL among cancer patients in China. The reviewed databases included CNKI, the WanFang database, VIP Database, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, PsycInfo, and Web of Science. We used the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool to assess the risk of bias, and we used Stata 15.1 for our meta-analysis. In total, 1,796 patients were included in the 18 RCTs we selected and reviewed. Our meta-analysis showed that compared to usual care, MBI can effectively improve anxiety (SMD =  − 1.32, 95% CI [− 1.69, − 0.94], p < 0.001), depression (SMD =  − 1.21, 95% CI [− 1.52, − 0.89], p < 0.001), and QoL (SMD = 1.09, 95% CI [0.73, 1.44], p < 0.001). Current evidence indicates that MBIs can effectively manage anxiety, depression, and QoL among cancer patients in China. Hence, MBIs should be included as part of the multidisciplinary treatment approach to treat cancer patients in China in order to protect their psychological well-being and QoL.