Introduction: Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy experiencing numerous
symptoms such as anorexia, which is the most frequently reported symptom that is linked
to decreased quality of life and overall survival. Benson’s Relaxation Technique (BRT) is
an effective complementary and non-pharmacological technique used to reduce anorexia in
cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Aim: The study aimed to evaluate effect of
Benson's relaxation technique on anorexia in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Setting: the study was conducted in the oncology unit affiliated to Benha University
Hospital, Benha, Egypt. Design A quasi-experimental research design was utilized to
conduct the current study.The following hypothesis was formulated to achieve the study's
aim; Anorexia score among cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy will be significantly
improved after implementation of Benson's relaxation technique than before
implementation. Subject: A purposive sample of 100 adult cancer patients undergoing
chemotherapy within six months were enrolled in this study to reach to a number of 86
patients at the end of study period. Tools: Four tools were used; Structured interviewing
questionnaire which consists of socio-demographic data and patients’ health history, also
the patients’ knowledge questionnaire, the patients’ practice observational checklist
regarding Benson's relaxation technique, and anorexia scale which consists of {(Visual
analogue appetite scale (VAS) and Functional assessment of anorexia - cachexia therapy
(FAACT)}. Results: The study showed that there was highly significant statistical
improvement in total knowledge and practice scores of studied patients after three months
of implementing the technique as compared to pre implementation, all mean total scores of
anorexia scale for cancer patients improved significantly after applying Benson’s relaxation
technique. Finally, the independent variables contributing to variance in anorexia score were
cancer staging, knowledge and practice scores, age, treatment line as well as educational
level. Conclusion: Benson's relaxation technique had a positive effect in reducing and
improves anorexia in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Recommendations:
Importance of presenting posters to remind patients about BRT and to improve patients'
knowledge and practices. Also, hospitals are recommended to use the BRT alongside other
treatments to alleviate anorexia and symptoms in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. |
