The Effect of Video-Assisted Mindfulness-Based Breathing on Quality of Life and Mental Well-Being in Individuals With Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most common malignancies worldwide and represents a significant public health burden. Individuals diagnosed with breast cancer frequently experience a wide range of physical and psychological challenges, including fatigue, pain, anxiety, depression, and decreased quality of life. These challenges may persist during and after treatment, highlighting the need for supportive and integrative care approaches.

Mindfulness-based interventions have gained increasing attention in oncology care due to their potential to improve psychological well-being and quality of life. Among these approaches, mindfulness-based breathing is a simple, non-invasive, and cost-effective method that focuses on increasing awareness of the present moment through controlled breathing. This practice may enhance parasympathetic nervous system activity and help reduce stress and anxiety.

Although mindfulness-based interventions have been studied in cancer populations, there is limited evidence specifically focusing on structured, video-assisted mindfulness-based breathing interventions in individuals with breast cancer. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a video-assisted mindfulness-based breathing program on quality of life and mental well-being in breast cancer patients.

This study is designed as a randomized controlled, single-blind clinical trial. A total of 50 participants diagnosed with breast cancer will be randomly assigned to either an intervention group (n=25) or a control group (n=25). The intervention group will receive a face-to-face training session on mindfulness-based breathing, followed by a 6-week daily practice supported by a 5-minute instructional video delivered through an online platform. Adherence to the intervention will be monitored through digital tracking systems and weekly follow-ups.

The control group will receive routine clinical care without additional intervention. Data will be collected at baseline and after the 6-week intervention period.

The primary outcomes of the study are quality of life and mental well-being. Quality of life will be assessed using the EORTC QLQ-C30 and EORTC BR23 scales, and mental well-being will be assessed using the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale (WEMWBS).

This study aims to contribute to the literature by providing evidence on a standardized, video-assisted mindfulness-based breathing intervention tailored for individuals with breast cancer. The findings are expected to support the integration of non-pharmacological, accessible, and cost-effective interventions into oncology care and nursing practice.

Inclusion criteria

Diagnosed with breast cancer Aged 18 years or older Stage I, II, or III breast cancer Completed at least 4 cycles of chemotherapy Completed chemotherapy treatment Able to understand and speak Turkish Has access to a digital device (smartphone, tablet, or computer) Willing to participate in the study

✔ Exclusion Criteria: Diagnosis of another type of cancer Presence of psychiatric disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression, anxiety disorders) Stage IV breast cancer Presence of respiratory problems Previous or current experience with yoga or meditation Refusal to participate in the study