Review Finds Mindfulness Often Improves Sleep Among Women With Cancer

A scoping review of 39 studies found that most reported better sleep quality or less insomnia among women with cancer who took part in mindfulness programs. Researchers searched eight databases through January 2026; 24 studies were randomized controlled trials, and 18 were conducted in the United States. Breast cancer was the most common diagnosis, and most participants were post-treatment survivors. Results varied: some studies found no difference between groups, and objective sleep measures were less consistent than questionnaires. Fatigue often improved alongside sleep, while pain findings were mixed. Few studies measured biological markers, with inconsistent results.