TMH in Mumbai plans to incorporate art and music therapy at its new ayurvedic cancer hospital set to open in 2026. These therapies aim to improve patient recovery, reduce anxiety, and enhance emotional wellbeing, backed by recent studies and expert opinions.

Mumbai: Tata Memorial Hospital (TMH) prepares to introduce art and music therapy at its new ayurvedic cancer hospital in Khopoli. This marks a significant development, as it will be the first ayurvedic cancer facility in India. With plans to complete the 100-bed center by March 2026, TMH is focusing on creative therapies that extend beyond traditional medical practices to assist in patient recovery. Activities like painting and crafting will be included to lift spirits and enhance healing processes.

Dr. Pankaj Chaturvedi, a prominent head and neck cancer surgeon at TMH, spoke about the goal behind these therapies. “Cancer often leads to long-term side effects and recurrence, so our core goal is to fortify post-treatment immunity,” he said. The hospital will explore herbal and plant-based treatments to work alongside existing cancer therapies.

Recent global trends show that art and music therapy are becoming vital in cancer care. A study from New York involving hematologic cancer patients highlighted positive outcomes from bedside art observation, notably reducing anxiety levels. The study compared anxiety scores, revealing a significant drop in those engaged in art activities versus those who weren’t, illustrating the potential benefits of these therapeutic forms.

Further emphasizing the importance of music therapy, Dr. Chaturvedi noted, “It helps reduce cortisol levels, regulate heart rate, and improve sleep.” Structured music sessions can enhance the immune response and provide emotional relief, which ultimately accelerates healing.

At the Khopoli facility, it won’t just be music therapy. Creative outlets like drawing and crafting are crucial too. These activities can help patients articulate feelings and cope with trauma, showcasing the therapeutic potential of art.

The idea isn’t just gaining traction in TMH — the World Economic Forum has recognized various non-drug therapies including art, music, and even animal-assisted therapy as significant supports for recovery.

Additionally, TMH’s ImPaCCT Foundation program focuses on the holistic development of children battling cancer. The hospital has recently started dog therapy sessions which have reportedly improved children’s moods and overall treatment outcomes. Dr. Shripad Banavali, in charge of academics at TMH, highlighted how dog therapy mitigates depression, enhancing recovery and maintaining patient engagement.

As TMH delves into these creative therapies, significant changes to the treatment approach for cancer patients appear imminent, paving the way for a more compassionate and holistic care model in India.

In summary, TMH is embracing innovative approaches to cancer care with the introduction of art and music therapy at its ayurvedic hospital in Khopoli. By focusing on holistic healing and emotional support, they aim to improve patient outcomes and overall recovery experiences. With backing from both medical professionals and research, the potential of these therapies looks promising for enhancing quality of life for cancer patients.

Sumber Asli: www.hindustantimes.com