A mixed method feasibility and acceptability study of a flexible intervention based on acceptance and commitment therapy for patients with cancer

Abstract

ProposeThis study aimed to propose an innovative, open, and circular program that combines acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and mindfulness practices. We assessed its feasibility, acceptability, and first signs of its effect on psychological wellbeing in cancer support treatment.MethodsA single-center, single-arm, uncontrolled study was performed. Forty adult patients with non-metastatic prostate or breast cancer, newly diagnosed or undergoing treatment (chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy), were recruited. Three cycles of three MAEva program sessions (MAEva: Mindfulness meditation, Acceptance, and Commitment to values program) over nine consecutive weeks were proposed. During the total of 12 weeks of follow-up, after attending the first session, patients were free to attend subsequent sessions.ResultsAdherence to the study was high, with participation in an average of 6.8 out of nine sessions. A total of eight patients attended all sessions over the three cycles, and 90% participated in at least one cycle. Furthermore, attendance was associated with a statistically significant improvement in Quality of Life (QoL). Each additional session was associated with a mean increase in overall QoL score of more than one point (β = 1.09 [0.13; 2.04], p = 0.02). The fatigue dimensions decreased with session attendance: physical (β = −2.24 [−3.63; −0.85]), emotional (β = −2.60 [−4.11; −1.09]), and interference with daily life (β = −2.33 [−3.95; −0.72]). The qualitative section demonstrated that patients learned skills and shared their ability to “let go”. Patients rated the degree of importance of the program at 8.36/10 (SD ± 1.64).ConclusionThis study highlights the feasibility and acceptability of an original program that combines ACT and mindfulness practices in cancer patients. Future studies are required to demonstrate the efficacy of the MAEVA program. The MAEva pilot study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov under the identifier NCT04751201.Clinical trial registrationhttps://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04751201, identifier [NCT04751201].