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01-12-2015 | Original Article

Feasibility of Cognitively-Based Compassion Training (CBCT) for breast cancer survivors: a randomized, wait list controlled pilot study

Authors: Sally E. Dodds, Thaddeus W.W. Pace, Melanie L. Bell, Mallorie Fiero, Lobsang Tenzin Negi, Charles L. Raison, Karen L. Weihs

Published in: Supportive Care in Cancer | Issue 12/2015

Abstract

Purpose

This study assessed the feasibility of a meditation-based program called Cognitively-Based Compassion Training (CBCT) with breast cancer survivors. Enrollment and participant satisfaction with a novel intervention, adherence to program requirements, and differences between the intervention group and wait list controls on self-report measures were also assessed. Additionally, cortisol, a stress-related endocrine biomarker, was assessed.

Methods

Participants (n = 33) were randomly assigned to CBCT or the wait list. CBCT provided eight weekly, 2-h classes and a “booster” CBCT session 4 weeks later. CBCT participants were expected to attend classes and meditate between classes at least three times per week. Pre-/post-intervention and follow-up questionnaires measured symptom change (depression, intrusive thoughts, perceived stress, fear of cancer recurrence, fatigue/vitality, loneliness, and quality of life). Saliva samples were collected at the same periods to assess the slope of diurnal cortisol activity.

Results

Enrollment, class attendance, home practice time, and patient satisfaction exceeded expectations. Compared to controls, post-intervention, the CBCT group showed suggestions of significant improvements in depression, avoidance of intrusive thoughts, functional impairment associated with fear of recurrence, mindfulness, and vitality/fatigue. At follow-up, less perceived stress and higher mindfulness were also significant in the CBCT group. No significant changes were observed on any other measure including diurnal cortisol activity.

Conclusions

Within the limits of a pilot feasibility study, results suggest that CBCT is a feasible and highly satisfactory intervention potentially beneficial for the psychological well-being of breast cancer survivors. However, more comprehensive trials are needed to provide systematic evidence.

Relevance

CBCT may be very beneficial for improving depression and enhancing well-being during breast cancer survivorship.

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Title: Feasibility of Cognitively-Based Compassion Training (CBCT) for breast cancer survivors: a randomized, wait list controlled pilot study
Authors: Sally E. Dodds
Thaddeus W.W. Pace
Melanie L. Bell
Mallorie Fiero
Lobsang Tenzin Negi
Charles L. Raison
Karen L. Weihs
Publication date: 01-12-2015
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: Supportive Care in Cancer / Issue 12/2015
Print ISSN: 0941-4355
Electronic ISSN: 1433-7339
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-015-2888-1

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Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Relevance

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