The Effect of Emotional Freedom Techniques on Death Anxiety and Cancer-Related Anxiety in Patients Undergoing Oncological Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Şerafettin Okutan, Gürkan Kapikiran, Remziye Cici et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial examined the impact of emotional freedom techniques (EFT) on death anxiety and cancer-related anxiety in 120 patients undergoing oncological surgery. The intervention group, which received EFT in addition to standard care, experienced significant reductions in both anxiety types and subjective distress scores (p < 0.001) compared to the control group.
Key findings
- The intervention group showed significant reductions in cancer-related anxiety scores (p < 0.001).
- Death anxiety scores in the intervention group decreased significantly (p < 0.001).
- Subjective distress scores were significantly lower in the intervention group (p < 0.001).
- Comparison of final test scores revealed lower anxiety levels in the intervention group (p < 0.05).
Why it matters
Understanding effective interventions for anxiety in cancer patients is crucial, as high levels of anxiety can negatively impact recovery and quality of life. This study suggests that EFT may provide immediate psychological benefits.
What to keep in mind
The study lacked a long-term follow-up period, limiting the understanding of the durability of the effects.