The use of Mindfulness in the oncology patient

Abstract

One of the main problems of the oncology patients is the coping with illness, through its different phases and moments. Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), has been used to reduce stress and negative emotional aspects in these patients. This educational program promotes the experience of the present moment and attempts a physiological adjustment on increased emotional activation. Although controlled studies do not allow knowing the really efficacy of this program, as well as delimiting its main components, positive findings have been got support its use in the treatment of oncology patients. In addition, it is speculated about consider Mindfulness like an educational program or a clinical intervention, considering the influence of this differentiation / distinction on Mindfulness’ effects.