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Research: GRAHAM et al.,
Listed in Issue 94
Abstract
GRAHAM et al., Cancer Care Centre, St George Hospital, Gray Stt, Kogarah, Australia, 2217, grahamp@nsw.gov.au, have conducted a trial of inhalation aromatherapy during radiotherapy.
Background
The purpose of this randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled trial was to determine whether inhalation aromatherapy during radiotherapy could reduce anxiety.
Methodology
313 patients undergoing radiotherapy were randomly allocated to receive either carrier oil with fractionated oils, carrier oil only, or pure essential oils of lavender, bergamot, and cedarwood. The aromatherapy was administered by inhalation concurrently with radiotherapy. Patients were assessed using Hospital Anxiety and Depression (HAD) scale and Somatic and Psychological Health Report (SPHERE) at baseline and at the end of the treatment.
Results
There were no differences between the 3 groups in HAD Depression scores or SPHERE scores. However HAD Anxiety scores were lower in patients receiving carrier oil only as compared to either of the fragrant groups (p = 0.04).
Conclusion
Aromatherapy, as administered in this study, does not reduce anxiety for patients undergoing radiotherapy.
References
Graham PH, Browne L, Cox H, Graham J. Inhalation aromatherapy during radiotherapy: Results of a placebo-controlled double-blinded randomized trial. Journal of Clinical Oncology 21 (12): 2372-2376, Jun 2003.
