The relationship between perceived stress, mindfulness, and sociodemographics among breast cancer patients in Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Objectives The perceived stress experienced by women with breast cancer in Saudi Arabia is a significant concern. Mindfulness can effectively reduce levels of perceived stress. However, the specific relationship between mindfulness practices and perceived stress among breast cancer patients in Saudi Arabia has not been thoroughly explored. This study aims to investigate the relationships between mindfulness and perceived stress, with particular attention to variations in perceived stress across sociodemographic groups of women with breast cancer in Saudi Arabia. Method A total of 152 women from Saudi Arabia who were diagnosed with breast cancer participated in this cross-sectional study, all of whom received care at a hospital located in Dammam, Eastern Province, and were selected through convenience sampling. Data collection was conducted from January to May 2025, utilizing a sociodemographic questionnaire in conjunction with the validated Perceived Stress Scale and the Cognitive and Affective Mindfulness Scale. Only a Correlational survey has been conducted without employing any intervention. Results The level of perceived stress was average (Mean = 16.2, SD = 7), while mindfulness levels were also average (Mean = 34.5, SD = 5.5). The two variables exhibited a significant, strong negative correlation ( r = -.53, p < .001). Age is the only sociodemographic significantly correlated with participants’ perceived stress (r=_.16, p = .04). Conclusion The study’s findings highlight the essential relationship between perceived stress, age, and mindfulness among women with breast cancer in Saudi Arabia. These insights can inform nurses and healthcare professionals as they implement targeted interventions that incorporate mindfulness practices, considering age and the cultural nuances of Saudi Arabia. Ultimately, this approach aims to reduce stress levels and enhance patients’ overall well-being. As the study was conducted in a single center and used convenience sampling, the findings cannot be generalized beyond the study sample.