Octophonic Sound Study Opens

Researchers at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center want to know if music and nature can decrease distress and increase feelings of well-being in patients receiving chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The Octophonic Sound Study utilizes octophonic sound, a new technology that creates a three-dimensional sound field. Eight speakers are placed in four corners of the treatment room on the ceiling and floor levels, providing a very real sound that can be sensed from different directions. Conducted by Dr. Charles Cleeland, director of M.D. Anderson's Pain Research Group in collaboration with the Yamaha Corporation of Japan, the first phase of the study is taking place in M.D. Anderson's ambulatory treatment area. Patients undergoing chemotherapy may select from four sounds - classical music, calm sea, music and nature, or nature only.

- Courtesy of M. D. Anderson Cancer Center

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