Using aromatherapy to reduce distress in breast cancer patients before radiotherapy
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Aromatherapy for Alleviating Distress in Breast Cancer Patients Before Radiotherapy.
This study is testing if breathing in scents from Asian plants can help breast cancer patients feel less anxious before their first radiotherapy session.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 300 (estimated) |
| Ages | 21 Years to 99 Years |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | National Cancer Centre, Singapore Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Singapore) |
| Trial ID | NCT06766058 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of inhalation aromatherapy using extracts from Asian aromatic plants to alleviate distress in breast cancer patients who are about to undergo their first radiotherapy session. A total of 300 patients will be randomly assigned to receive either an aromatherapy intervention or a placebo. Patients will inhale the provided aroma for 20 minutes prior to their treatment, with their distress levels, blood pressure, and pulse rate assessed before and after the intervention. The goal is to establish evidence for aromatherapy as a complementary therapy in cancer care.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are breast cancer patients aged 21 and older who are scheduled to undergo radiotherapy for the first time.
Not a fit: Patients with known allergies to essential oils or those taking anxiety medications may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce anxiety and distress in breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with aromatherapy in reducing anxiety in various patient populations, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Aged 21 years old and above 2. Confirmed diagnosis of breast cancer of any stage 3. Scheduled to undergo radiotherapy for the first time 4. Capable of providing informed consent Exclusion Criteria: 1. Physically or mentally incapable of providing verbal/written consent 2. Known or suspected hypersensitivity/allergy to essential oils or any components of the formulations 3. Airway hypersensitivity to fragrances, paint fumes or turpentine 4. Taking medications for anxiety (e.g. benzodiazepines) before radiotherapy 5. Pregnant, breastfeeding, or intending to conceive during study period
Where this trial is running
Singapore
- National Cancer Centre Singapore — Singapore, Singapore (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Dr. Fuh-Yong Wong, MBBS, FRCR — National Cancer Centre, Singapore
- Study coordinator: Dr. Fuh-Yong Wong, MBBS, FRCR
- Email: wong.fuh.yong@singhealth.com.sg
- Phone: +65 63061110
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.