Effect of a Mind-Body-Spirit Intervention on Stress and Cardiovascular Parameters among Patients Undergoing Haemodialysis: A Pilot Study

Introduction: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) affects more than 800 million people worldwide. Patients undergoing haemodialysis often experience increased stress and compromised cardiovascular health, which may affect treatment outcomes. Addressing these psychosocial and physiological challenges is therefore essential for improving patient well-being. Aim: To determine the effect of a Mind-Body-Spirit intervention on stress and cardiovascular parameters among patients undergoing haemodialysis. Materials and Methods: A quantitative pilot, quasi-experimental non equivalent pre-test–post-test control group design was used in the dialysis units of Yenepoya Medical College Hospital and Father Muller Medical College Hospital, Mangaluru, Karnataka, India, from November 30, 2023, to April 30, 2024. Thirty patients were purposively selected and allocated to an intervention group (n=15) and a control group (n=15). Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS); Blood Pressure (BP) and heart rate were measured using a calibrated digital BP monitor. The intervention group received the Mind-Body-Spirit intervention three times weekly for 12 weeks, while the control group received standard care. Demographic variables were summarised using frequency and percentage. Changes in stress, Blood Pressure (BP) and heart rate across time and between groups were analysed using two-way repeated measures Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) (p<0.05). Results: The total study sample included 30 participants. Most were aged 35-45 years, comprising 16 (53.3%), male 23 (76.7%), and unemployed 16 (53.3%). Most participants had undergone haemodialysis for 1-5 years 18 (60.0 %) and hypertension was the most common comorbidity 18 (60.0%). Baseline demographic and clinical variables were comparable between groups (p>0.05). The intervention group showed significant reductions in stress (p=0.026), systolic BP (p=0.015), diastolic BP (p=0.003), and heart rate (p=0.028). Conclusion: The Mind-Body-Spirit intervention significantly reduced stress and improved cardiovascular parameters among patients undergoing haemodialysis. Integrating such interventions into CKD care may enhance psychological resilience and cardiovascular health.