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The Effect of The Mindfulness-Based Relaxation, Aromatherapy, and Prayer (RADO) Intervention on Anxiety and Quality of Life Among Children With Cancer

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Purpose: This study evaluates the effectiveness of a novel mindfulness-based intervention called RADO (Relaxation, Aromatherapy, and Prayer) for reducing anxiety and improving the quality of life in children with cancer. Patients and Methods: A quasi-experimental pre- and post-control group design was used. Participants included 66 children with cancer aged 10-17 years, diagnosed with cancer for at least 3 months, currently undergoing treatment, and able to communicate verbally, and recruited from three hospitals in Bandung, Indonesia. The study used consecutive sampling. The intervention group received a seven-day RADO program involving mindfulness-based relaxation, aromatherapy, and prayer. Anxiety and QoL were measured using the Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety (HRS-A) and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PEDQL 3.0), respectively. Data were collected at baseline (T0), day three (T1), and day seven (T3). Statistical analysis included repeated ANOVA and independent t-tests. Results: By day seven (T3), the intervention group showed a significant reduction in anxiety (p < 0.001) and improved QoL (p = 0.001) compared to the control group. Repeated ANOVA revealed significant within-group changes in the intervention group across time points, while no significant changes were observed in the control group. Following the intervention, males and a diagnosis of ALL demonstrated slightly higher anxiety scores and quality of life scores than female and those with other cancer types. Additionally, individuals who underwent fewer chemotherapy cycles (<10) showed better outcomes in anxiety and quality of life than those with 10 or more cycles. Conclusion: The RADO intervention significantly reduced anxiety and enhanced QoL among pediatric cancer patients, demonstrating its potential as a culturally tailored MBI for children undergoing cancer treatment. Further research is needed to explore long-term effects and cross-cultural adaptability.

Source: Journal of Multidisciplinary Healthcare

DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s507759

Authors: Dyna Apriany, Windy Rakhmawati, Aulia Iskandarsyah, Dany Hilmanto

Institutions: Universitas Jenderal Achmad Yani, Padjadjaran University

Language: English

Topic: Cancer survivorship and care

Subfield: Oncology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,836