PROJECT SUMMARY:
This application seeks a diversity supplement under parent grant, (1R01AT011745-01) which is a
comprehensive a systematic review and meta-analysis that seeks to determine the impacts of mindfulness-
based stress reduction (MBSR) on key health-related outcomes such as anxiety, depression, stress,
physical functioning, quality of life, pain, and cost effectiveness. Compared to other racial and ethnic
groups, Black women disproportionately suffer from high rates of hypertension and stress, which are
interrelated risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Physical activity is an important lifestyle
modification that is often recommended to treat and prevent hypertension. Mind Body Physical Activity
(MBPA) interventions also referred to as ‘mindful exercise’ are uniquely positioned to improve stress
management and physical activity outcomes simultaneously. The data on MBPAs in Black populations
remains mixed and there is a lack of high-quality systematic reviews and syntheses. This supplement will
allow us to expand on the 2nd aim of the parent study: Through a systematic review and meta-analysis,
determine the impacts of MBSR on key health-related outcomes informed by the iKT strategy, such as
anxiety, depression, stress, physical functioning, quality of life, pain, and cost effectiveness. The proposed
supplement is in alignment with the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health’s
strategic objectives to, “foster research on health promotion and restoration, resilience, disease
prevention, and symptom management” and to, “advance research on the whole person and on the
integration of complementary and conventional care.” This study will provide an opportunity to increase
our understanding regarding the efficacy of MBPA interventions for primary and secondary prevention of
cardiovascular disease and hypertension risk in a population with high risk and need. To accomplish this
goal, we will conduct a mixed-methods systematic review on the effects of MBPA interventions on blood
pressure among Black women.
