Effect of Mindfulness-Based Social–Emotional Learning Approach on Knowledge and Anxiety Levels Regarding Cervical Cancer Prevention

Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer remains a major public health concern worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Limited knowledge regarding cervical cancer prevention and elevated anxiety levels may hinder women’s participation in preventive measures. Mindfulness-Based Social–Emotional Learning integrates mindfulness practices with social–emotional learning strategies and may enhance health knowledge while reducing anxiety. Materials and Methods: A quasi-experimental pretest–posttest non-equivalent control group design was conducted among 80 women attending gynecological outpatient clinics in Egypt. Participants were assigned to a study group (n = 40) and a control group (n = 40). Data were collected using a structured interview questionnaire, a cervical cancer knowledge questionnaire, and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). The study group received an eight-week MBSEL intervention incorporating mindfulness exercises, social–emotional learning activities, and cervical cancer education, while the control group received routine health education. Pre- and post-intervention assessments were performed. Results: Baseline characteristics were comparable between groups. Following the intervention, the study group had significantly higher mean knowledge scores regarding cervical cancer prevention, with mean knowledge scores increasing from 38.71 ± 10.41 to 66.25 ± 8.95 compared with 42.09 ± 15.95 in the control group (t = 8.355, p < 0.001). Good knowledge levels increased from 2.5% to 35.0%, while poor knowledge declined from 62.5% to 0.0%. Anxiety levels significantly improved in the study group, with mean BAI scores decreasing from 38.68 ± 6.32 to 22.20 ± 3.91 compared with 34.28 ± 9.53 in the control group (t = 7.414, p < 0.001). Low anxiety increased from 2.5% to 62.5% in the study group compared with 7.5% to 12.5% in the control group, and severe anxiety was eliminated from 27.5% to 0.0% in the study group compared with 32.5% to 22.5% in the control group after the intervention. Conclusions: The MBSEL approach effectively enhanced women’s knowledge regarding cervical cancer prevention and significantly reduced anxiety levels. Integrating mindfulness practices with social–emotional learning and health education appears to strengthen cognitive engagement and emotional regulation. Clinical Trial Registration: Registered in accordance with WHO and ICMJE standards (Trial number: PACTR202605512267205). Registration date: 29 May 2026.