This prospective randomized trial evaluated the effect of music interventions on anxiety and nervousness during 10 consecutive days in individuals undergoing their first radiation therapy session.

A total of 100 participants were enrolled and randomly assigned to either the music group or nonmusic group (n = 50 each). Investigators ensured an equal distribution of men and women, without considering the cancer type. To minimize confounding factors and prevent shared learning experiences or communication between the two groups, the participants in the experimental and control groups were scheduled for treatment at different times throughout the year (from January 1, 2022 to December 31, 2022). Anxiety assessment questionnaires were administered before the treatment began and after 2 weeks of treatment. Physiological parameters, including heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and blood oxygen levels, were monitored before and after 2 weeks of treatment. In the music intervention group, the patients received music intervention during RT for 10 consecutive days and listened to music for approximately 10-15 minutes in each session. The music period was then followed by a 10-day period without music during treatment to evaluate the differences in the same individuals. In contrast, the control group did not receive music intervention throughout their entire RT period. Investigators observed the music intervention group for 2 weeks to ascertain any differences.

Inclusion Criteria:

• patients undergoing RT for cancer for the first time
• patients with clear consciousness and normal hearing
• patients willing to respond to the questionnaire after the research process and purpose were explained to them.

Exclusion Criteria:

• patients who had previously undergone RT
• patients with diminished mental capacity or inability to satisfactorily participate in this study
• patients with moderate to severe hearing impairment.