Presenter
Dara Studnitzer, OT/S; Tori Sandull, OT/S; Bella Fazio, OT/S
Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
2025
Abstract
Research on mindfulness-based interventions is limited but necessary to determine the potential impacts on quality of life among children diagnosed with cancer. The objective was to investigate the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in improving quality of life outcomes for children diagnosed with cancer. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines were used for the systematic review. Studies from 2014 to 2024 that focused on interventions such as mindfulness, meditation and yoga for children ages 6-12 with a cancer diagnosis were reviewed, and outcomes that include quality of life, life satisfaction, well-being, and happiness were analyzed. Six studies met inclusion criteria, where there were low to moderate levels of evidence. Limited significant evidence was found supporting the use of yoga and mindfulness tools among this population.
Despite limited research and a lack of statistically significant findings, yoga and mindfulness-based interventions show promise in improving the quality of life for children with cancer. Small improvements in quality of life are valuable for clients and highlight the potential benefit of these intervention tools. Future research should focus on addressing current limitations by incorporating larger, more diverse samples and occupational therapist-led interventions to compile more evidence.
Faculty Mentor
Colleen Cameron Whiting, O.T.D., OTR/L
Academic Discipline
College of Health & Wellness
Repository Citation
Studnitzer, Dara; Sandull, Tori; and Fazio, Bella, "Mindfulness Interventions for Pediatric Cancer" (2025). Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium. 186.
https://scholarsarchive.jwu.edu/innov_symposium/186
