THE EFFECT OF A MINDFULNESS-BASED STRESS REDUCTION PROGRAM ON QUALITY OF LIFE , ANXIETY AND EMPOWERMENT LEVELS IN WOMEN WITH CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a prevalent cardiovascular condition that develops as a result of narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries supplying blood to the heart, significantly affecting the cardiovascular system. CAD is recognized as a major cause of morbidity and mortality, particularly among individuals aged 40 and older. According to 2024 data from the British Heart Foundation (BHF), approximately 110 million men and 80 million women worldwide are affected by CAD, with the disease accounting for one in every six deaths globally. Similarly, data from the Turkish Statistical Institute, indicate that circulatory system diseases represent 36% of total deaths in Turkey, with 42.9% of these deaths attributable to ischemic heart diseases. CAD not only adversely impacts individual health but also imposes a significant burden on public health and healthcare systems. Its high prevalence, associated morbidity and mortality, long-term and costly treatment requirements, and the resulting decline in quality of life position CAD as a critical public health priority. Affecting millions of men and women worldwide, CAD leads not only to physical symptoms but also to psychological challenges that reduce quality of life. Stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms are common psychosocial issues among patients with CAD and can complicate the management of chronic disease. In managing chronic illnesses, it is essential to enhance individuals' stress-coping skills, improve emotional regulation, and strengthen psychological resilience. In recent years, mindfulness-based interventions have emerged as scientifically supported approaches to achieve these objectives. Mindfulness and other awareness-based programs have been shown to help individuals cope with stress, manage anxiety, and improve psychological resilience. Existing literature includes studies evaluating the effects of mindfulness-based interventions in CAD and other cardiovascular conditions. However, most of these studies examine mixed patient populations and do not thoroughly investigate sex-specific differences. Notably, women with CAD experience symptoms, psychological stress, and quality-of-life challenges differently than men. Therefore, there is a clear need for tailored, targeted intervention models specifically designed for female patients with CAD.