CanTalk Blog

Listening to music or sessions with trained music therapists may benefit cancer patients. Music can reduce anxiety, and may also have positive effects on mood, pain and quality of life, a new Cochrane systematic review shows.

Evidence from 1,891 patients taking part in 30 trials was examined. 13 trials used trained music therapists, whereas the other 17 trials, patients listened to pre-recorded music.

Results show that in comparison to standard treatments, anxiety was reduced by music significantly in the groups who used it. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2011, Issue 8. No specific recommendations were made regarding the type of music or the amount of time music therapy should be used.

If you would like to speak to someone about improving anxiety you can talk directly to one of our Nurse Counselors on + 65 6738 9333 or email: enquiry@canhope.org. Alternatively, you may find it helpful to talk any concerns you have over with your doctor.