Application of mindfulness techniques in patients with asthma or COPD

Abstract

Objective

Mindfulness is the ability to pay attention to the present moment without judgment. Mindfulness interventions have proved to be effective in improving the management of psychological symptoms of chronic patients. The objective of this work is to update the evidence about the effects of mindfulness interventions on psychological symptoms in patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Methodology

Data sources were PubMed and PsycInfo. From a first set of 109 articles, 12 about mindfulness-interventions in adult populations with asthma or COPD were finally included in the review.

Results

Of the total of 12 studies included, 5 were qualitative and 6 quantitative (5 randomized controlled trials). One quantitative study reported long-term psychological effects in asthma patients, two studies reported short-term psychological effects in COPD patients. Relevant themes identified in qualitative studies included increased awareness, development of new relationships with dyspnea, including new cognitive strategies, and slowing down.

Conclusions

Mindfulness interventions could increase psychological resources in situations related to asthma and COPD symptoms. More randomized control trials are needed.

Keywords:

• Asthma
• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• mindfulness
• stress
• quality of life

Declaration of interest

The authors report no conflict of interests

Additional information

Funding

This work was funded by SEPAR (Spanish Society of Chest Diseases and Thoracic Surgery).