Efficacy of mindfulness-based interventions for pain in patients with cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis

초록

Introduction: Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) are promising non-pharmacological strategies for cancer-related pain. However, existing evidence is limited by a focus on specific cancer types, inclusion of non-randomised studies, and the few studies included in prior meta-analyses. This study systematically evaluated the effects of MBIs on pain in patients with cancer. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed using PubMed, Web of Science, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and Embase, covering studies published up to 25 November 2025. Pooled effect sizes were calculated as standardised mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using a random-effects model. The risk of bias in the included RCTs was independently assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool (version 2.0). Results: This meta-analysis included 21 randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with 2337 participants. MBIs were associated with significant reduction in pain compared to control conditions (SMD = -0.55, 95% CI = -0.86 to -0.25, I & sup2; = 86.7%, P < 0.001). Subgroup analyses indicated that interventions lasting 8 weeks or longer were associated with greater reductions in pain. Conclusion: MBIs may be an effective non-pharmacological option for reducing pain in patients with cancer. These findings can inform clinical guidelines and support the integration of MBIs into standard oncology care. However, the substantial heterogeneity among studies, the potential publication bias, and the limited number of studies in certain subgroups warrant cautious interpretation. Further large-scale RCTs are required to confirm these findings and strengthen the overall evidence base. Registration: PROSPERO (CRD420251171898)

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