Mindful breathing for cancer pain: efficacy of a single 20-minute session - a randomised controlled study.
Seng Beng Tan, Chee Shee Chai, Diana Leh Ching Ng, Sheriza Izwa Zainuddin, David Paul Capelle, Chee Loong Lam, Chui Munn Ang, Win Lin Chai, Nik Natasha Nik Ishak, Yu Xiang Ong, Ying Xi Ngu
BMJ supportive & palliative care August 20, 2024 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2023-004762
Summary
A single 20-minute session of mindful breathing significantly reduced pain intensity and unpleasantness in cancer patients, with a sample of 120 adult inpatients reporting scores of 4/10 or higher. Compared to a control group receiving supportive listening, those engaging in mindful breathing experienced notable improvements in anxiety levels as well. This approach offers a rapid, non-pharmacological alternative for terminal care, enhancing supportive care strategies for managing cancer-related pain and promoting overall well-being among patients facing this challenging symptom.
Abstract
Cancer pain is a prevalent and challenging symptom affecting a significant number of patients globally, with inadequate control remaining a substantial challenge despite advancements in pain management. Non-pharmacological interventions, including mindfulness-based approaches, have shown promise in alleviating cancer-related pain. This study aimed to explore the efficacy of a single session of 20-minute mindful breathing in reducing pain among patients with cancer. A randomised controlled study was conducted at the University of Malaya Medical Centre, Malaysia, involving adult cancer inpatients with a pain score of ≥4/10. Participants were randomly assigned to a 20-minute mindful breathing intervention or a 20-minute supportive listening control group. Outcome measures included pain intensity, pain unpleasantness and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale score, assessed before and after the intervention. The 20-minute mindful breathing sessions demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing pain intensity, pain unpleasantness and anxiety compared with the control group. This research broadens the repertoire of cancer pain management by highlighting the rapid and holistic benefits of a single session of 20-minute mindful breathing. The findings suggest the potential integration of brief mindfulness exercises into routine cancer care to enhance pain management and overall well-being.