A relaxation response training for women undergoing breast biopsy: exploring integrated care

Abstract

Background: Recent changes in clinical guideline recommendations for age of breast cancer screening initiation highlighted the potential psychological ramifications associated with screening. This study examined the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a brief Relaxation Response training (RRT) to decrease distress among women undergoing breast biopsy.

Methods: Women scheduled for percutaneous core-needle biopsy were recruited into a single-arm RRT trial, including 3 individual sessions. Psychosocial assessments were completed pre- and postintervention.

Results: Forty women were enrolled between 6/1/10 and 8/31/11. Among enrollees, 75% completed all 3 RRT sessions, and 75% completed the post-assessment. Participants showed significant reductions in acute distress following each RRT session. Qualitative feedback indicated a positive impact of RRT on clinic care experiences.

Conclusions: RRT is a portable intervention that was feasible to implement, acceptable to patients and associated with significant decreases in acute emotional distress during the period of diagnostic uncertainty related to percutaneous breast biopsy.

Keywords: Anxiety; Breast biopsy; Breast cancer screening; Mind body medicine; Relaxation response; Stress.