A Pilot Pragmatic Trial of mHealth Mindfulness Intervention to Improve Quality of Life Among Metastatic Cancer Patients and Their Caregivers

Screening for psychosocial distress is an accreditation requirement of the Commission on Cancer, underscoring the importance of addressing cancer patients’ psychosocial needs. Mindfulness-based training is one strategy that has been shown to help cancer patients reduce distress and improve quality of life. However, logistical requirements of standard in-person mindfulness classes make it impractical for cancer patients to receive benefit. To address this issue, we have conducted a few studies that demonstrated the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of non-face-to-face mindfulness approaches (e.g., CD, MP3 and mobile app). Building on these studies, this project will pilot test the feasibility of implementing a mobile/online-based mindfulness program for advanced cancer patients and their caregivers in a cluster randomized trial involving six oncology clinics.

0