Effect of Turkish classical music on blood pressure: a randomized controlled trial in hypertensive elderly patients

Adjuvant music therapy for patients with hypertension: a meta-analysis and systematic review

BACKGROUND

High blood pressure, anxiety, depression and sleep disorder is very common in patients with hypertension. We aimed to perform a meta-analysis to evaluate the effects of adjuvant music therapy for patients with hypertension, to provide insights to the clinical management of hypertension.

METHODS

Two authors searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Biomedical Literature Database, Wanfang Databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the role of music therapy in hypertension up to Oct 15, 2022. RevMan 5.3 software was used for meta-analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 20 RCTs including 2306 patients were finally included. 1154 patients received music therapy. Meta-analysis showed that music therapy can effectively reduce the systolic blood pressure(MD = - 9.00, 95%CI: - 11.99~- 6.00), diastolic blood pressure(MD = -6.53, 95%CI: -9.12~- 3.93), heart rate (MD = -3.76, 95%CI: -7.32~- 0.20), self-rating anxiety scale (SAS) score(MD =-8.55, 95%CI: -12.04~-4.12), self-rating depression scale (SDS) score(MD = -9.17, 95%CI: -13.85~-5.18), Hamilton anxiety scale (HAMA), score(MD = -3.37, 95%CI: - 5.38~- 1.36), PSQI score(MD =-1.61, 95%CI:-2.30~- 0.93) compared with routine therapy in patients with hypertension(all P < 0.05). No publication bias in the synthesized outcomes were found (all P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Music therapy can effectively control blood pressure and heart rate, reduce anxiety and depression levels, and improve sleep quality in hypertensive patients. Limited by the quantity and quality of included studies, the above conclusions need to be verified by more high-quality studies.

Effect of Indian Music as an Auditory Stimulus on Physiological Measures of Stress, Anxiety, Cardiovascular and Autonomic Responses in Humans-A Randomized Controlled Trial

Among the different anthropogenic stimuli humans are exposed to, the psychological and cardiovascular effects of auditory stimuli are less understood. This study aims to explore the possible range of change after a single session of auditory stimulation with three different ‘Modes’ of musical stimuli (MS) on anxiety, biomarkers of stress, and cardiovascular parameters among healthy young individuals. In this randomized control trial, 140 healthy young adults, aged 18−30 years, were randomly assigned to three MS groups (Mode/Raga Miyan ki Todi, Malkauns, and Puriya) and one control group (natural sounds). The outcome measurements of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, salivary alpha-amylase (sAA), salivary cortisol (sCort), blood pressure, and heart rate variability (HRV) were collected at three time points: before (M1), during (M2), and after the intervention (M3). State anxiety was reduced significantly with raga Puriya (p = 0.018), followed by raga Malkauns and raga Miyan Ki Todi. All the groups showed a significant reduction in sAA. Raga Miyan ki Todi and Puriya caused an arousal effect (as evidenced by HRV) during the intervention and significant relaxation after the intervention (both p < 0.005). Raga Malkauns and the control group had a sustained rise in parasympathetic activity over 30 min. Future studies should try to use other modes and features to develop a better scientific foundation for the use of Indian music in medicine.

Assessing descriptions of scalability for hypertension control interventions implemented in low-and middle-income countries: A systematic review

Background

The prevalence of hypertension continues to rise in low- and middle-income- countries (LMICs) where scalable, evidence-based interventions (EBIs) that are designed to reduce morbidity and mortality attributed to hypertension have yet to be fully adopted or disseminated. We sought to evaluate evidence from published randomized controlled trials using EBIs for hypertension control implemented in LMICs, and identify the WHO/ExpandNet scale-up components that are relevant for consideration during “scale-up” implementation planning.

Methods

Systematic review of RCTs reporting EBIs for hypertension control implemented in LMICs that stated “scale-up” or a variation of scale-up; using the following data sources PubMed/Medline, Web of Science Biosis Citation Index (BCI), CINAHL, EMBASE, Global Health, Google Scholar, PsycINFO; the grey literature and clinicaltrials.gov from inception through June 2021 without any restrictions on publication date. Two reviewers independently assessed studies for inclusion, conducted data extraction using the WHO/ExpandNet Scale-up components as a guide and assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. We provide intervention characteristics for each EBI, BP results, and other relevant scale-up descriptions.

Main results

Thirty-one RCTs were identified and reviewed. Studies reported clinically significant differences in BP, with 23 studies reporting statistically significant mean differences in BP (p < .05) following implementation. Only six studies provided descriptions that captured all of the nine WHO/ExpandNet components. Multi-component interventions, including drug therapy and health education, provided the most benefit to participants. The studies were yet to be scaled and we observed limited reporting on translation of the interventions into existing institutional policy (n = 11), cost-effectiveness analyses (n = 2), and sustainability measurements (n = 3).

Conclusion

This study highlights the limited data on intervention scalability for hypertension control in LMICs and demonstrates the need for better scale-up metrics and processes for this setting.

Trial registration

Registration PROSPERO (CRD42019117750).

Music Therapy as an Intervention to Reduce Blood Pressure and Anxiety Levels in Older Adults With Hypertension: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Hypertension is a serious medical condition, the frequency of which increases significantly with age; has a negative impact on certain health complications; and increases the rate of mortality. Music therapy as a nonpharmacological treatment has many positive effects on an individual's body and mind. A randomized controlled trial was used to evaluate the effects of music therapy on blood pressure, heart rate, and anxiety levels in older adults with hypertension living in a nursing home. Sixty older adults were randomly divided into experimental and control groups (n = 30 each). Significant reductions in systolic blood pressure, heart rate, and anxiety levels were found in older adults with hypertension receiving music therapy compared with the control group. The current study confirms music therapy as a safe, noninvasive, nonpharmacological, and cost-effective intervention for reducing blood pressure, heart rate, and anxiety levels in older adults with hypertension. [Research in Gerontological Nursing, 15(2), 85-92.].

EEG Correlates of Middle Eastern Music Improvisations on the Ney Instrument

The cognitive sciences have witnessed a growing interest in cognitive and neural basis of human creativity. Music improvisations constitute an ideal paradigm to study creativity, but the underlying cognitive processes remain poorly understood. In addition, studies on music improvisations using scales other than the major and minor chords are scarce. Middle Eastern Music is characterized by the additional use of microtones, resulting in a tonal–spatial system called Maqam. No EEG correlates have been proposed yet for the eight most commonly used maqams. The Ney, an end-blown flute that is popular and widely used in the Middle East was used by a professional musician to perform 24 improvisations at low, medium, and high tempos. Using the EMOTIV EPOC+, a 14-channel wireless EEG headset, brainwaves were recorded and quantified before and during improvisations. Pairwise comparisons were calculated using IBM-SPSS and a principal component analysis was used to evaluate the variability between the maqams. A significant increase of low frequency bands theta power and alpha power were observed at the frontal left and temporal left area as well as a significant increase in higher frequency bands beta-high bands and gamma at the right temporal and left parietal area. This study reveals the first EEG observations of the eight most commonly used maqam and is proposing EEG signatures for various maqams.

Effect of Musical Therapy Langgam Jawa on Pre-chemotherapy Anxiety of Cancer Patients

BACKGROUND: Anxiety occurs in cancer patients who are undergoing chemotherapy for the 1st time. Excessive anxiety which occurred in the pre-chemotherapy phase can contribute to the failure of chemotherapy programs. One of attempts to reduce anxiety is providing musical therapy Langgam Jawa. AIM: The purpose of the research is to identify the effect of musical therapy Langgam Jawa to pre-chemotherapy anxiety score. METHODS: The research used quasi-experimental design which involved pre-posttest with control group. The research was conducted at a hospital in Central Java. The population was cancer patients who undergoing chemotherapy for the 1st time and experienced pre-chemotherapy anxiety. Samples were selected with purposive sampling technique that met inclusion criteria. Subjects were 42 respondents consisting of 21 in each group obtained by simple random sampling technique. Health education and deep breathing exercise were provided to the control group, while the treatment group obtained health education, deep breathing exercise, and musical therapy Langgam Jawa. The measurement of pre-chemotherapy anxiety in the cancer patients was using State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. An independent t-test performed the analysis. RESULTS: The results showed that pre-chemotherapy anxiety score decreases significantly in those two groups (p-value: 0.001; α: 0.05). The treatment group showed a higher decrease of pre-chemotherapy anxiety than the control group. CONCLUSION: The finding highlights musical therapy Langgam Jawa is effective to reduce pre-chemotherapy anxiety of cancer patients. It is recommended to apply musical therapy Langgam Jawa for cancer patients who’re undergoing chemotherapy.

Effect of a group music intervention on cognitive function and mental health outcomes among nursing home residents: A randomized controlled pilot study

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of a group music intervention with rhythmic exercises program on cognitive function and mental health outcomes among Korean nursing home residents . A randomized controlled study design was employed, in which the experimental group (n = 20) received a biweekly group music intervention with rhythmic exercises program and a regular activities program for 12 weeks, and the control group (n = 20) received only a regular activities program provided by the nursing home. We measured cognitive function and mental health outcomes using the Mini-Mental State Examination-Korean Version (MMSE-K), Geriatric Depression Scale Short Form-Korean Version (GDSSF-K), Geriatric Anxiety Inventory-Korean Version (GAI-K), and Life Satisfaction Scale. ANCOVA was performed to examine the effect of the group music intervention on the study variables. The results suggested that the group music intervention with rhythmic exercises program improved cognitive function, depression, anxiety, and life satisfaction.

The effectiveness of Sufi music for mental health outcomes. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 21 randomised trials

BACKGROUND

There is some evidence that Sufi music therapy might improve physical and mental well-being; however, no systematic review or meta-analysis has pooled and critiqued the evidence. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the effects of Sufi music therapy on mental health outcomes.

METHODS

We searched Medline, PsycINFO, the Web of Science, Science Direct, PsycARTICLES, Cochrane Library, SCOPUS, CINAHL Plus, AMED, and ULAKBIM databases, and the reference lists of the studies found. Papers published in academic peer-reviewed journals were included, as well as from other sources such as chapters in edited books, the grey literature, or conference presentations. Articles published up to March 2020 in Turkish and English were included. Our primary outcome of interest was anxiety and secondary outcomes of interest were other mental health outcomes such as depression. To assess the methodological quality of the articles, the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool was used. The quality of evidence was assessed using the GRADEpro GDT system.

RESULTS

This search yielded 21 clinical trials that were eligible for inclusion. A meta-analysis, using a random effects model, of 18 randomised controlled trials involving 1454 participants showed that Sufi music therapy with makams, compared with treatment as usual (TAU) or a no-music control group, reduced symptoms of anxiety in the short term in patients undergoing an operation or treatments such as chemotherapy or haemodialysis (standardised mean difference SMD= -1.15, 95 % CI, -1.64 to -0.65; very low-quality evidence). The evidence of Sufi music with makam's effect on anxiety is rated as very low. Qualitative synthesis of secondary outcomes revealed significant effects for depression, positive symptoms in schizophrenia, stress, which however were based on fewer studies. Trials were of moderate methodological quality, and there was significant heterogeneity across the studies.

CONCLUSION

Sufi music may reduce anxiety of patients undergoing medical procedures like haemodialysis, coronary artery surgery, angiography, colonoscopy, bone marrow aspiration and biopsy procedures. Evidence from single studies suggests effects on depression and stress as well. However, due to methodological limitations of the studies, further, higher quality studies are required in other cultures.

Effect of music on patients with cardiovascular diseases and during cardiovascular interventions : A systematic review

BACKGROUND

The therapeutic effects of music have been known for thousands of years. Recently, studies with music interventions in patients with cardiovascular diseases yielded controversial results. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the effects of receptive music intervention on the cardiovascular system.

METHODS

We searched in PubMed, SCOPUS and CENTRAL for publications between January 1980 and May 2018. Primary endpoints were heart rate, heart rate variability and blood pressure. Secondary endpoints comprised respiratory rate, anxiety and pain. The quality of the studies was assessed by using the CONSORT statement and the Cochrane risk of bias assessment tool. A meta-analysis and subgroup analyses concerning music style, gender and region were planned.

RESULTS

A total of 29 studies comprising 2579 patients were included and 18 studies with 1758 patients investigated the effect of music on patients undergoing coronary angiography or open heart surgery. Other studies applied music to children with congenital heart diseases, pregnant women with hypertension or patients with unstable angina. Due to high methodological study heterogeneity, a meta-analysis was not performed. The study quality was assessed as medium to low. In ten studies with higher quality comprising 1054 patients, music intervention was not associated with significant changes in the cardiovascular endpoints compared to the control group. The subgroup analyses did not demonstrate any relevant results.

CONCLUSION

Currently no definite effect of receptive music intervention on the cardiovascular system can be verified. Further research is needed to assess music as an inexpensive and easy applicable form of therapy.

Effects of music therapy on pain and oxidative stress in oocyte pick-up: A randomized clinical trial

Background and objective

The aim was to investigate the effects of Turkish classical music on pain and oxidative stress in patients undergoing oocyte pick-up.

Methods

The study was a randomized, controlled trial. The groups included Group NM (Non-Music), control group; Group PM, which comprised patients who listened to music before the operation; and Group CM, which comprised patients who listened to music both before and during the operation. Blood was drawn prior to the operation to measure the oxidative stress values. Pain, hemodynamic parameters, oxidative stress values were assessed postoperatively.

Results

The number of patients requiring additional propofol was higher in Group PM than in Groups NM and CM (p = 0.003). The postoperative Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score were lower in Groups PM and CM than in Group NM (p = 0.001, p = 0.007) in the 1st and 60th minutes. The postoperative VAS score was lower in Group CM than in Group NM (p = 0.045) in the 5th minute. The postoperative additional analgesic requirements were lower in Groups PM and CM than in Group NM (p = 0.045). The postoperative blood glutathione peroxidase values were significantly higher in Groups PM and CM than in Group NM (p = 0.001). The postoperative catalase values were significantly higher in Groups PM and CM than in Group NM (p = 0.008 and p < 0.001). The preoperative malondialdehyde values were significantly lower in Groups PM and CM than in Group NM. The preoperative nitric oxide values were higher in Groups PM and CM than in Group NM (p < 0.001), whereas the postoperative nitric oxide values were lower in Groups PM and CM than in Group NM (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Turkish classical music has beneficial effects on pain and oxidative stress in oocyte pick-up patients.

[Effects of music therapy on pain and oxidative stress in oocyte pick-up: a randomized clinical trial]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The aim was to investigate the effects of Turkish classical music on pain and oxidative stress in patients undergoing oocyte pick-up.

METHODS

The study was a randomized, controlled trial. The groups included were Group NM (Non-Music), control group; Group PM, which comprised patients who listened to music before the operation; and Group CM, which comprised patients who listened to music both before and during the operation. Blood was drawn prior to the operation to measure the oxidative stress values. Pain, hemodynamic parameters, oxidative stress values were assessed postoperatively.

RESULTS

The number of patients requiring additional propofol was higher in Group PM than in Groups NM and CM (p=0.003). The postoperative Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score were lower in Groups PM and CM than in Group NM (p=0.001, p=0.007) in the 1^st and 60^th minutes. The postoperative VAS score was lower in Group CM than in Group NM (p=0.045) in the 5^th minute. The postoperative additional analgesic requirements were lower in Groups PM and CM than in Group NM (p=0.045). The postoperative blood glutathione peroxidase values were significantly higher in Groups PM and CM than in Group NM (p=0.001). The postoperative catalase values were significantly higher in Groups PM and CM than in Group NM (p=0.008 and p ≤0.001). The preoperative malondialdehyde values were significantly lower in Groups PM and CM than in Group NM. The preoperative nitric oxide values were higher in Groups PM and CM than in Group NM (p ≤0.001), whereas the postoperative nitric oxide values were lower in Groups PM and CM than in Group NM (p ≤0.001).

CONCLUSION

Turkish classical music has beneficial effects on pain and oxidative stress in oocyte pick-up patients.

Management of resistant hypertension

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Resistant hypertension is defined as blood pressure above patient goal despite three different antihypertensive agents at optimal dose including a diuretic. Resistant hypertension is increasingly common issue in clinical practice and it is a major risk factor of cardiovascular disease.

RECENT FINDINGS

All patients with resistant hypertension should be evaluated for possible correctable factors associated with pseudoresistance, such as poor adherence, white coat hypertension and suboptimal measurement of blood pressure. In patients with resistant hypertension, thiazide diuretics should be considered as one of the first agents, in addition to mineralocorticoids receptor antagonist.

SUMMARY

Resistant hypertension can be associated with secondary cause that is why treatment can be challenging and should always include lifestyle modification and evaluation for possible secondary causes, in addition to adding a fourth agent or considering newer interventional therapies, such as renal denervation or other device-based options.

The Effect of Music on the Comfort and Anxiety of Older Adults Living in a Nursing Home in Turkey

The study was designed as a randomized controlled experimental study with a pretest/posttest and a control group. The study sample comprised 56 seniors who resided in a nursing home. The study data were collected using the "Mini-Mental State Examination," "Identification Form," "General Comfort Questionnaire," and "Beck Anxiety Inventory." While the mean scores obtained from the General Comfort Questionnaire by the participants in the experimental group demonstrated significant differences (p < 0.05), those obtained by the participants in the control group did not (p > 0.05). The mean scores obtained from the Beck Anxiety Inventory by the participants in the experimental group after a 3-week music intervention were significantly higher than their pre-study scores (p < 0.05); however, no significant increase was observed in the control group (p < 0.05).It was determined that music reduced anxiety experienced by the older adults since it improved their comfort.

Advancing Well-Being and Health of Elderly with Integrative Nursing Principles

There is a need for holistic care for the survival of the elderly, to increase their independence in their daily life activities, to improve their health and their well-being in order to ensure a healthy aging. Integrative nursing principles are a field of application of holistic philosophy and may be a guide to health professionals in improving the health of individuals, families and communities. These principles were first announced in 2014, and have been described as a health approach that takes the individual, family and society as a whole together with their environment and relationships and adopts the principle of using all the healing methods in health care. Integrative nursing principles can be used as a guide to holistic assessment and improvement of the health of the elderly. Interventions who take care of them with the environment they live in (home visits), support their existing healing process (focusing to patient during nursing care), benefit from the healing effect of the nature (spending time in nature), strengthen the relationship (mobilization of the social environment) and use all evidence-based healing methods (yoga, tai chi) should be included in the care of elderly individuals. Health professionals should learn integrative nursing principles and care for these principles in order to improve the health and well-being of the elderly. Giving care according to integrative nursing principles can increase the quality of life of the elderly and reduce health spending.

Music Affects Rodents: A Systematic Review of Experimental Research

Background: There is rapidly emerging interest in music interventions in healthcare. Music interventions are widely applicable, inexpensive, without side effects, and easy to use. It is not precisely known how they exert positive effects on health outcomes. Experimental studies in animal models might reveal more about the pathophysiological mechanisms of music interventions. Methods: We performed a systematic review of experimental research in rodents. The electronic databases EMBASE, Medline(ovidSP), Web-Of-Science, PsycINFO, Cinahl, PubMed publisher, Cochrane, and Google scholar were searched for publications between January 1st 1960 and April 22nd 2017. Eligible were English-written, full-text publications on experimental research in rodents comparing music vs. a control situation. Outcomes were categorized in four domains: brain structure and neuro-chemistry; behavior; immunology; and physiology. Additionally, an overview was generated representing the effects of various types of music on outcomes. Bias in studies was assessed with the SYRCLE Risk of Bias tool. A meta-analysis was not feasible due to heterogeneous outcomes and lack of original outcome data. Results: Forty-two studies were included. Music-exposed rodents showed statistically significant increases in neuro-chemistry, such as higher BDNF levels, as well as an enhanced propensity for neurogenesis and neuroplasticity. Furthermore, music exposure was linked with statistically significantly improved spatial and auditory learning, reduced anxiety-related behavior, and increased immune responses. Various statistically significant changes occurred in physiological parameters such as blood pressure and (para)sympathetic nerve activity following music interventions. The majority of studies investigated classical music interventions, but other types of music exerted positive effects on outcomes as well. The SYRCLE risk of bias assessment revealed unclear risk of bias in all studies. Conclusions: Music interventions seem to improve brain structure and neuro-chemistry; behavior; immunology; and physiology in rodents. Further research is necessary to explore and optimize the effect of music interventions, and to evaluate its effects in humans.

[Effects of Music Therapy on the Care Burden of In-Home Caregivers and Physiological Parameters of Their In-Home Dementia Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial]

OBJECTIVES

This study was conducted to explore the effects of classical Turkish music therapy on both the caregiver burden and physiological parameters of patients with dementia.

METHODS

The study was a randomized controlled trial. It was conducted with dementia patients (n = 75) and their caregivers who were registered at in-home care services of the General Secretariat of the Association of Public Hospitals in Ordu. The study sample consisted of 30 control and 30 music group patients and their caregivers who satisfied the inclusion criteria for the study conducted between April 2015 and April 2016. The primary outcome of the study was to measure the care burden of in-home caregivers, and the secondary outcome was to measure physiological parameters, including systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, and respiration rate in patients with dementia.

RESULTS

The mean scores of the post-test caregiver burden in the music group were found to be significantly lower than those of the control group (t = -4.478, p = 0.001). The differences in the post-test systolic and diastolic blood pressures between the patient groups were found to be statistically significant (t = -4.603, p = 0.001; t = -2.656, p = 0.010).

CONCLUSIONS

Classical Turkish music intervention in in-home dementia patients decreased the care burden of caregivers and the patients' blood pressures were brought under control. In parallel with these results, it is recommended that more studies to reveal the effects of classical Turkish music on care burden should be conducted.

What works for wellbeing? A systematic review of wellbeing outcomes for music and singing in adults

Aims:

The role of arts and music in supporting subjective wellbeing (SWB) is increasingly recognised. Robust evidence is needed to support policy and practice. This article reports on the first of four reviews of Culture, Sport and Wellbeing (CSW) commissioned by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC)-funded What Works Centre for Wellbeing (https://whatworkswellbeing.org/).

Objective:

To identify SWB outcomes for music and singing in adults.

Methods:

Comprehensive literature searches were conducted in PsychInfo, Medline, ERIC, Arts and Humanities, Social Science and Science Citation Indexes, Scopus, PILOTS and CINAHL databases. From 5,397 records identified, 61 relevant records were assessed using GRADE and CERQual schema.

Results:

A wide range of wellbeing measures was used, with no consistency in how SWB was measured across the studies. A wide range of activities was reported, most commonly music listening and regular group singing. Music has been associated with reduced anxiety in young adults, enhanced mood and purpose in adults and mental wellbeing, quality of life, self-awareness and coping in people with diagnosed health conditions. Music and singing have been shown to be effective in enhancing morale and reducing risk of depression in older people. Few studies address SWB in people with dementia. While there are a few studies of music with marginalised communities, participants in community choirs tend to be female, white and relatively well educated. Research challenges include recruiting participants with baseline wellbeing scores that are low enough to record any significant or noteworthy change following a music or singing intervention.

Conclusions:

There is reliable evidence for positive effects of music and singing on wellbeing in adults. There remains a need for research with sub-groups who are at greater risk of lower levels of wellbeing, and on the processes by which wellbeing outcomes are, or are not, achieved.

Non-invasive treatment to grade 1 essential hypertension by percutaneous laser and electric pulse to acupoint with music: A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To study a non-drug therapy for hypertension disease by combining percutaneous laser and electric pulse stimulation to acupoint with music, and to test the efficiency of the combining treatment to grade 1 essential hypertension.

METHODS

A total of 174 patients with grade 1 essential hypertension were randomly assigned to 3 groups with a random number table after Chinese medicine (CM) syndrome differentiation: the photoelectric and musical treatment group (Group 1, with a self-developed multi-mode audio frequency pulse photoelectric therapeutic apparatus), acupuncture group (Group 2), and oral placebo group (Group 3), 58 cases per group. The curative effect of each group was evaluated by the changes of blood pressure and CM syndrome integral before and after treatment.

RESULTS

Compared with Group 3, there were significant decrease of blood pressure and CM syndrome integral in Group 1 and Group 2 (P<0.01). Compared with Group 2, Group 1 showed the highest decrease in systolic pressure (P<0.017). The total effective rate of anti-hypertension in Group 1 (91.38%, 53/58) was significantly higher than that in Group 2 (74.13%, 43/58) and Group 3 (18.97%, 11/58, P<0.05 or P<0.01); and that in Group 2 was also significantly higher than that in Group 3 (P<0.01). There were significant difference in the total effective rate of CM syndrome integral in both Group 1 (93.10%, 54/58) and Group 2 (84.48%, 49/58) as compared with Group 3 (17.24%, 10/58, P<0.01), while there was no significant difference between Group 1 and Group 2 (P>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The multi-mode audio frequency pulse photoelectric therapeutic apparatus, combining music, laser and electric pulse stimulation, is clinically useful for grade 1 essential hypertension. This "three in one" therapy method is non-invasive, easy and simple to handle. It is expected to be popularized as a new alternative treatment.

Exploring the effect of sound and music on health in hospital settings: A narrative review

BACKGROUND

Sound in hospital space has traditionally been considered in negative terms as both intrusive and unwanted, and based mainly on sound levels. However, sound level is only one aspect of the soundscape. There is strong evidence that exploring the positive aspect of sound in a hospital context can evoke positive feelings in both patients and nurses. Music psychology studies have also shown that music intervention in health care can have a positive effect on patient's emotions and recuperating processes. In this way, hospital spaces have the potential to reduce anxiety and stress, and make patients feel comfortable and secure. This paper describes a review of the literature exploring sound perception and its effect on health care.

DATA SOURCES AND REVIEW METHODS

This review sorted the literature and main issues into themes concerning sound in health care spaces; sound, stress and health; positive soundscape; psychological perspective of music and emotion; music as a complementary medicine for improving health care; contradicting arguments concerning the use of music in health care; and implications for clinical practice. Using Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest Central, MEDLINE, and Google, a literature search on sound levels, sound sources and the impression of a soundscape was conducted. The review focused on the role and use of music on health care in clinical environments. In addition, other pertinent related materials in shaping the understanding of the field were retrieved, scanned and added into this review.

RESULTS

The result indicated that not all noises give a negative impression within healthcare soundscapes. Listening to soothing music was shown to reduce stress, blood pressure and post-operative trauma when compared to silence. Much of the sound conveys meaningful information that is positive for both patients and nurses, in terms of soft wind, bird twitter, and ocean sounds.

CONCLUSIONS

Music perception was demonstrated to bring about positive change in patient-reported outcomes such as eliciting positive emotion, and decreasing the levels of stressful conditions. Whilst sound holds both negative and positive aspects of the hospital ecosystem and may be stressful, it also possesses a soothing quality that induces positive feelings in patients. Conceptualizing the nature of sound in the hospital context as a soundscape, rather than merely noise can permit a subtler and socially useful understanding of the role of sound and music in the hospital setting, thereby creating a means for improving the hospital experience for patients and nurses.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of music interventions in hypertension treatment: a quest for answers

Background

Adverse effects, treatment resistance and high costs associated with pharmacological treatment of hypertension have led to growing interest in non-pharmacological complementary therapies such as music interventions. This meta-analysis aims to provide an overview of reported evidence on the efficacy of music interventions in the treatment of hypertension.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted for publications on the effect of music interventions on blood pressure in adult hypertensive subjects published between January 1990-June 2014. Randomized controlled trials with a follow-up duration ≥28 days were included. Blood pressure measures were pooled using inverse variance weighting.

Results

Of the 1689 abstracts reviewed, 10 randomized controlled trials were included. Random-effects pooling of the music intervention groups showed a trend toward a decrease in mean systolic blood pressure (SBP) from 144 mmHg(95 % CI:137–152) to 134 mmHg(95 % CI:124–144), and in mean diastolic blood pressure (DBP) from 84 mmHg(95 % CI:78–89) to 78 mmHg(95 % CI:73–84). Fixed-effect analysis of a subgroup of 3 trials with valid control groups showed a significant decrease in pooled mean SBP and DBP in both intervention and control groups. A comparison between music intervention groups and control groups was not possible due to unavailable measures of dispersion.

Conclusions

This systematic review and meta-analysis revealed a trend towards a decrease in blood pressure in hypertensive patients who received music interventions, but failed to establish a cause-effect relationship between music interventions and blood pressure reduction. Considering the potential value of this safe, low-cost intervention, well-designed, high quality and sufficiently powered randomized studies assessing the efficacy of music interventions in the treatment of hypertension are warranted.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12872-016-0244-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Effect of music therapy on blood pressure of individuals with hypertension: A systematic review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Studies have reported the benefits of music on blood pressure in hypertensive patients, however there is no meta-analysis. We performed a meta-analysis to investigate the effects of music in hypertensive patients.

METHODS

Pubmed, Scopus, LILACS, IBECS, MEDLINE and SciELO via Virtual Health Library (Bireme) (from the earliest date available to February 2016) for controlled trials that evaluated the effects of music on systolic and diastolic blood pressure in hypertensive patients. Weighted mean differences (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated, and heterogeneity was assessed using the I(2) test.

RESULTS

Three studies met the eligibility criteria. Music resulted in improvement in systolic blood pressure WMD (-6.58 95% CI: -9.38 to -3.79), compared with control group. A nonsignificant difference in diastolic blood pressure was found for participants in the music group compared with control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Music may improve systolic blood pressure and should be considered as a component of care of hypertensive patients.

Music versus lifestyle on the autonomic nervous system of prehypertensives and hypertensives--a randomized control trial

OBJECTIVES

Ragas of Indian music are said to be beneficial in normalizing blood pressure (BP). The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of passive listening to relaxing raga on the autonomic functions of hypertensives and prehypertensives and provide scientific evidence.

METHODS

Ethical clearance was obtained from the institutional review board. A prospective, randomized controlled trial was done on hundred prehypertensives/stage I hypertensives, randomly divided into two groups (n=50 in each). Group 1 received music intervention along with lifestyle modifications while Group 2 received only lifestyle modifications (according to Joint national committee VII guidelines). Group 1 listened to raga bhimpalas played on flute for 15min daily for at least 5 days/week for 3 months. The main outcome measures were heart rate variability (HRV) (Power lab 15T, AD Instruments), BP and stress levels (State Trait anxiety inventory score). All HRV variables were log transformed for analysis. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 18.0 with P<0.05 being considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Group 1 exhibited significant reduction in stress levels, diastolic BP and systolic BP decreased in Group 2 after intervention. Insignificant rise in parasympathetic parameters of HRV (SDNN, RMSSD, HF ms(2), HF nu) was seen after intervention in both the groups. We found significantly increased parasympathetic and lower sympathetic parameters (LF ms(2), LF nu, LF/HF) in Group 1 and 2 males and females of Group 2. The results suggest that females of Group 1 were least compliant with the given intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Passive listening to Indian music along with conventional lifestyle modifications has a role in normalizing BP through autonomic function modification and thus can be used as a complementary therapy along with other lifestyle modifications.

Combination of music with lifestyle modification versus lifestyle modification alone on blood pressure reduction - A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the change in blood pressure (BP) after 3 months of music intervention combined with lifestyle modifications, in comparison with conventional lifestyle modifications.

METHODS

A Prospective randomized control trial was conducted on hundred prehypertensives or stage I hypertensives who were randomly divided into two groups (n = 50 each). Both the groups were given lifestyle modifications while one had added music intervention (raga bhimpalas) for 3 months. Main outcome measures were 24 h ambulatory BP monitoring, stress levels, and biomarkers of hypertension.

RESULTS

Mean (SD) of diastolic BP (DBP) pre and post intervention were overall = 85.1(6.8) and 83(8.7){P = 0.004}, awake = 87.7(7.6) and 85.9(9.2){P = 0.021}. Regression analysis showed association between diastolic BP change and post-intervention stress score in the music intervention group. Significant change in BP was seen among those who were prehypertensives prior to intervention.

CONCLUSION

Music decreased DBP and when used as an adjunct benefitted subjects with initial BP in prehypertension range.

Perspectives of medical oncologists regarding music therapy for patients with cancer in Turkey - can musicology be integrated into psycho-oncology?

BACKGROUND

Music therapy is a common complementary and alternative therapy in addition to medical treatment for patients with cancer. If music therapy, which is known has a positive effect on human emotions and behaviors, is a useful additional therapy, it should be more integrated into pyscho-oncology. In this study, we aimed to determine medical oncologist attitudes to music therapy for patients with cancer and knowledge about musicology and music therapy in Turkey.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This survey study included questions about participant attitudes and knowledge regarding music therapy as well as demographic characteristics. The population of the study were 402 physicians working in medical oncology in Turkey and the sample covered 112 participants in the the survey. For statistical analyses the chi-square test, Fischer exact test, and Mann-Whitney U analysis are applied.

RESULTS

In our study the rate for medical oncologists who were interested in music therapy was 28% (n=112). Some 30% (n=34) of medical oncologists recommended music therapy for their patients and 55% (n=61) recommended music therapy to prevent anxiety in patients with cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, for more harmony with patients and in order to ensure management of adverse effect, it was concluded that music therapy should be regrded as an additional therapy in oncology clinics.