Aim To systematically review and critically appraise the evidence on the effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) for cancer supportive care. Methods A comprehensive search of major biomedical databases including Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO and the Cochrane Library was conducted. Specialist complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) databases including AMED and CISCOM were also searched. Additionally, efforts were made to identify unpublished and ongoing research. Relevant research was categorised by study type and appraised according to study design. Clinical commentaries were obtained for each study and included in the review. Findings Three randomised controlled clinical trials (RCTs) and seven uncontrolled clinical trials were found. A lack of relevant qualitative research studies was identified. Studies report positive results including improvements in mood, sleep quality and reductions in stress. A dose-response effect has been observed between practice of MBSR and improved 2 outcome. A number of methodological limitations were identified. Modifications to the traditional MBSR program make comparison between studies difficult and a lack of controlled studies precludes any firm conclusion on efficacy. No adverse effects from therapy were reported in the studies. Conclusion Systematic searching and appraisal of relevant studies has demonstrated that MBSR has potential as a clinically valuable self-administered intervention for cancer patients. A small number of RCTs and several uncontrolled studies have been published. Further research into the efficacy, feasibility and safety of MBSR for cancer patients in the nursing context is recommended