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Music has therapeutic effects on cancer patients
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
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An article was published in one of the American journals about the beneficial effect of music on patients diagnosed with malignant tumors. As a result of some studies conducted in the United States, it was found that music has a positive effect on cancer patients: it improves the psycho-emotional state and other vital signs.
Before this, scientists conducted a study, the results of which concluded that the news of an oncological disease provoked a depressed mental state in most patients. Almost all volunteers who took part in the experiment were observed to be afraid, and after a certain period of time, almost half of the patients fell into a depressive state of varying severity.
A new study has found that after patients underwent music therapy for three weeks, they experienced a reduction in cancer- related pain, and their mood and outlook on life improved significantly. In addition, the researchers noted that the patients experienced a reduction in the negative impact of the heavy anti-cancer therapy they were undergoing.
Doctors using this method noted that in each specific case it is necessary to select their own version of musical influence, taking into account the preferences, abilities and needs of the person. The specialists made this conclusion after all the participants in the experiment were divided into two groups. The volunteers who took part in the research project were from 11 to 24 years old. In one group, patients listened to musical works, and in the second, audiobooks.
Listening to music had a much better effect on the psycho-emotional state of cancer patients, and music therapy also helped reduce the severe pain experienced by cancer patients. The researchers explained this effect by the fact that sound waves have a certain frequency, which affects the human body.
However, not all musical genres have proven beneficial. For example, rock fans may eventually lose their peace of mind, as prolonged and frequent listening to such music leads to stress, as well as problems with sleep and hearing.
To improve health, scientists recommend classical music. Moreover, in earlier studies, scientists were able to determine that it is classical music that promotes a person's speedy recovery. And in medicine, the so-called "Mozart Effect" has long been known - the amazing effect of Wolfgang Mozart's musical compositions on the human brain. As can be seen from some studies, after listening to the music of this composer, brain activity increases, intelligence increases, but scientists have not been able to fully explain this musical phenomenon.
Lead author of the research project, Joan Hase, noted that music, especially classical music, may be useful as an additional treatment for cancer patients.
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