This medical study looked at the effects of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MSBR) on the mood, quality of life, levels of stress and cortisol, dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (DHEAS) and melatonin in patients with early stage breast or prostate cancer. A significant improvement in quality of life, stress level, and sleep was found, however there was no correlation between these improvements and the amount time in program attendance or home practice. Some changes were found in the level or cortisol were found in some patients, but no major changes of DHEAS or melatonin were observed. The researchers conclude MBSR did contribute to an enhanced quality of life and may have meaningful effects on hormones associated with stress. (Zach Rowinski 2005-02-13)