Age moderates the association between psychological distress and engagement in mindfulness among cancer patients and survivors: A population-based study

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Purpose We aim to evaluate the relationship between psychological distress and engagement in mindfulness among a national representative sample of cancer survivors. Sample and design Using the 2017 National Health Interview Survey, our final analytical sample included 3068 participants who reported having been diagnosed with cancer. Methods and analysis We used logistic regression analysis to assess the association and to test age as a moderator. We also conducted follow-up analysis using Fisher’s r-to-z transformation. All analyses were adjusted for complex sample weights. Findings Cancer survivors who had subclinical and clinical psychological distress were more likely to engage in mindfulness, OR = 1.59, 95% CI [1.24, 2.02] and OR = 1.45, 95% CI [1.02, 2.05], respectively. Age significantly moderated such association with the relationship much stronger among those who are younger (younger than 65 years old) than those who are older (65 years or older), b = 0.97, 95% CI [0.95, 0.99]. Conclusions The relationship between psychological distress and engagement in mindfulness differs significantly by a survivor’s age. Psychosocial oncological providers need to account for a survivor’s age when delivering mindfulness based care to address psychological distress.