Apollo Proton Cancer Centre (APCC), in collaboration with DigiNxtHlt Solutions, has unveiled South Asia’s first AI-driven music therapy for cancer patients under the 'Echo Care' product range. The MUSICC Study (Music Intervention for Cancer Care) specifically explores how personalized soundscapes can alleviate stress and enhance the overall treatment experience during chemotherapy.
This pilot study, approved by the Apollo Ethics Committee and registered under the Clinical Trials Registry (CTRI), observed over 50 patients in the oncology day-care setting. Each participant listened to AI-curated, frequency-modulated music, resulting in notable improvements in anxiety and depression levels as measured by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and FACT G-7 assessments. These findings underscore music as a valuable, non-pharmacological complement to conventional cancer care.
Carnatic vocalist and Padma Bhushan awardee Srimathi Sudha Raghunathan inaugurated the initiative, remarking, "Music has always been a powerful medium of expression, where people find solace. It has the power to soothe, to heal, and to uplift." Dr. Preetha Reddy, Executive Vice Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals Enterprises, emphasized the institution’s commitment to holistic patient care by integrating technology with emotional well-being.
Echo Care employs multi-class neural networks to tailor "soundscapes" for each patient, continuously learning from user interactions. Unlike conventional music therapy, these modulated frequencies are designed to offer therapeutic benefits targeting stress reduction and improved quality of life.
By harnessing the power of AI and music, APCC further strengthens its position as a leader in comprehensive oncology treatment, blending cutting-edge science with innovative supportive care solutions.
