Evaluating the Effects of Mindfulness-Based Self-Help via an OTT Platform on Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Radiotherapy: A Prospective Nonrandomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Purpose Previous research showed the benefits of mindfulness meditation on the mental health and quality of life of breast cancer patients. Traditionally, these programs relied on in-person interactions, but the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic necessitated alternative delivery methods. This study evaluated the effectiveness and feasibility of a mindfulness-based self-help (MBSH) program via Netflix for breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. Materials and Methods This prospective nonrandomized controlled study assigned patients to a control or MBSH group based on age and preference. The MBSH group watched episodes of “Headspace Guide to Meditation” on Netflix and practiced guided meditation at least twice per week for four weeks. Participants completed questionnaires assessing depression, anxiety, stress, insomnia, mindfulness, mental adjustment to cancer, and quality of life at weeks 0 and 8. Data were analyzed using a two-way repeated meas-ures ANOVA. Results Ninety-six patients participated, with 84 eligible for final analysis (44 control, 40 MBSH). Intention-to-treat analysis revealed a significant improvement in depression (f=4.306, p=0.041). Half of the experimental group (n=20) adhered to the study protocol. At week 8, the experimental group showed significant improvement compared to the control group in cognitive avoidance (f=8.530, p=0.005) and positive attitude (f=5.585, p=0.021), both indicative of adaptive coping strategies. Conclusion This study firstly investigated the effect and feasibility of a Netflix-based MBSH program for breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. Findings suggest MBSH on Netflix can improve mental health and adaptive mental adjustment, highlighting the potential of self-help mindfulness interventions to enhance the well-being of cancer patients and need for further research.