Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for Breast Cancer Survivors (MBSR[BC]) Improves Self-Reported Optimism.
L Forest G Rosenfeld1,2, Cecile A Lengacher2, Carmen S Rodriguez2
1Department of Psychology, University of Tampa, Tampa, Florida, USA.
Psycho-Oncology
|June 19, 2026
Summary
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) improved optimism and mindfulness in breast cancer survivors. This non-pharmacological intervention may enhance psychosocial well-being and recovery.
Area of Science:
- Psychosocial oncology
- Complementary and alternative medicine
- Behavioral medicine
Background:
- Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is known to reduce stress and fear of recurrence in breast cancer (BC) survivors.
- Limited evidence exists on MBSR's impact on positive psychosocial outcomes like optimism and social support in cancer populations.
- Enhanced mindfulness correlates with increased optimism and healthier coping mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential psychosocial benefits of the MBSR(BC) intervention.
- To investigate MBSR(BC) as a non-pharmacological, alternative medicine approach for breast cancer survivors.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 322 post-treatment breast cancer survivors (stages 0-III, average age 56.6).
- Participants were assigned to a 6-week MBSR(BC) intervention or usual care.
- Linear mixed models (linear growth curve analysis) assessed changes in optimism and social support at 6 and 12 weeks.
Main Results:
- Participants in the MBSR group (n=152) showed significant increases in self-reported optimism (p=0.025) and mindfulness (p=0.0001) over time compared to the usual care group (n=147).
- No significant difference in social support was observed between the MBSR and usual care groups (p=0.378).
Conclusions:
- The MBSR(BC) intervention may enhance optimism and mindfulness through learned perceptual biases.
- MBSR(BC) shows potential for imparting psychosocial benefits and promoting adaptive stress responses in breast cancer survivors.
- These effects could contribute to improved cancer recovery and overall quality of life.
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