Music Therapy for Cancer Patients

CEBU, Philippines- Our mothers used to sing to us when we were small - to lull us to sleep, to comfort us when we are distressed, or to calm us after a bad day.

We grew up listening to or making music. Remember the tunes of "Chikading," "Pen Pen de Sarapen," "Leron Leron Sinta," "Mary Had A Little Lamb," and "Jack and Jill"? We used to chant them when we were on our way to school or home with other kids.

Until now, singing still never fails to entertain us and help us relax. For many, music is an escape zone that brings harmony to the mind and soul. Consider also that music, which is simply a form of entertainment for most, can be a way to help ease the suffering of patients in hospitals or medical centers.

Many studies have already cited that music therapy can help people afflicted with cancer cope with the side effects of the ailment, such as depression, pain, and anxiety.

Music therapy may be an unfamiliar concept to many Filipinos, but some are already using this complementary disease management technique. The patients undergo sessions of listening to music; singing; composing songs; playing simple instruments, and discussing song lyrics with the professionally-trained music therapist.

"People love the soothing effect of music on their mind, body, and spirit. This type of therapeutic intervention is used to promote wellness and manage stress brought about by cancer diagnosis or treatment," said Ronald delos Reyes, program coordinator of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. - Eduardo J. Aboitiz Cancer Center.

It's difficult to fully understand the magnitude of pain a cancer patient has to endure. The surgeries, transfusions, appointments, and more surgeries could take their toll on the patient - physically, emotionally, and psychologically. But, in general, patients believe that music can likely help ease what they feel.

Music has been used in medicine for thousands of years already, according to the website www.cancer.org. Native Americans have used singing and chanting as part of their healing rituals, for millennia. It is on record that in World War II, U.S. Veterans Administration hospitals were using music to help treat shell-shocked soldiers.

While there are no claims that music therapy prevents or cure any type of disease, including cancer, researches show that music therapy can be a safe zone for people to understand their emotional turmoil and fears. Music encourages patients to open up and relate their feelings, and communicate their aspirations and dreams.

The use of music also promotes healing and enhances the life experience among patients. It reduces the level of stress and anxiety. It helps relieve symptoms and promote social interaction.

In a 2006 study, researchers looked into past studies that used music therapy to reduce pain in people with cancer. There were 51 studies with a total of 3,663 patients taking part. The conclusion was that engaging in music could reduce pain. The reviewers also noted that it reduced the need for strong painkillers. They advised, however, that music should not be considered as a first treatment for pain relief.

Research has looked at music therapy for people undergoing high dose of chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Evidence cited that it can help relieve chemotherapy-induced vomiting and nausea. Medical experts pointed out that music therapy could reduce high blood pressure, depression, and sleeplessness, among others.

A music therapist designs the music sessions for the patients based on their needs, tastes and capabilities. There are some patients who just listen to different music genres or play the guitar or the piano. It could also be a session where patients paint a picture in their minds on what the music is about.

Employing music as a form of therapy, however, is delicate and needs to be administered by a trained therapist who is familiar with this kind of intervention. A musical therapy session conducted by untrained people may only cause increased discomfort and stress to the patients.

Music therapy can be done in different places such as in the hospitals, cancer centers, or at home, depending on where the patient is comfortable.

While music therapy is safe and has no side effects to patients, it should be remembered that loud music may make some people uncomfortable. It is recommended that soft and classical music be used in the session.

Finally, music therapy is not a replacement for conventional treatments. It, however, offers relaxation that a patient needs while he continues to fight a life-threatening disease like cancer.

(Sources:www.cancer.org / www.cancerresearchuk.org)