Lessons learned: providing a mindfulness-based stress reduction program for low-income multiethnic women with
Priscilla D Abercrombie1, Anita Zamora, Abner P Korn
1Department of Obstetrics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA. pdanp@pacbell.net
Holistic Nursing Practice
|December 15, 2006
Summary
This pilot study found that a mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program significantly reduced anxiety and improved self-compassion in low-income women with abnormal Pap smears, though participant retention was challenging.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Behavioral Science
- Gynecologic Oncology
Background:
- Cervical cancer disproportionately affects low-income ethnic minority women.
- Abnormal Pap smears require timely follow-up and management.
- Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) may offer benefits for women's health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility and acceptability of an MBSR program.
- To evaluate the impact of MBSR on anxiety and self-compassion.
- To identify challenges and strategies for engaging this demographic in research.
Main Methods:
- Pilot study involving multiethnic, low-income women with abnormal Pap smears.
- Weekly 2-hour MBSR sessions over 6 consecutive weeks.
- Pre- and post-program measurements of state anxiety and self-compassion; focus groups and surveys for evaluation.
Main Results:
- Significant reduction in state anxiety observed.
- A trend towards increased self-compassion was noted.
- Participants reported a very positive evaluation of the MBSR program.
Conclusions:
- MBSR is a feasible and acceptable intervention for this population.
- High attrition rates present a significant challenge for research.
- Strategies to improve recruitment and retention are crucial for future studies.
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