UCLA Journal of Radiation Oncology SUMMER 2024 - Flipbook - Page 85
UCLA RADIATION ONCOLOGY JOURNAL
between treatment efficacy and quality of life
physical health. Additionally, future research
considerations. Overall, I aim to integrate
could explore how different forms of art impact
these insights into a broader perspective of
patient outcomes. Understanding the science
oncology and patient-centered care, which will
behind how art affects mood and recovery may
be invaluable as I move forward in my medical
possibly lead to evidence-based practices in
training and future practice.
cancer care. Overall, integrating Neuroaesthetics
into medicine could lead to more compassionate,
E: The foundation of this issue is
patient-centered care that addresses the
Neuroaesthetics and the intersection of
emotional and psychological aspects of patients
medicine and the arts. Have the arts been
dealing with cancer diagnoses, ultimately
part of your medical school training? In Susan
Magsamen and Ivy Ross’ book, Your Brain on
Art, they discuss prescriptive art. Instances
where it’s already being used include singing
improving outcomes and quality of life for
helping individuals with dementia recall
physician’s analytical and communication skills.
memories and reconnect with loved ones;
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cancer patients. Arts also have the potential to
enhance reelection, empathy, and compassion
amongst physicians, which may improve a
light and sound altering the progression of
dementia; and dance helping individuals with
Parkinson’s disease, strokes, and other motorbased challenges to improve gait, cognition,
sleep, and mood. As the next generation, how
do you see Neuroaesthetics being incorporated
into medicine, cancer care in the future?
M: Although the arts have not been a prominent
part of my medical school training, I have
seen their potential benefits as a valuable
addition to patient treatment plans. Integrating
art experiences, like music or visual art
into therapeutic interventions can help
patients express emotions and process their
cancer journey. Programs and interventions
that blend these elements with traditional
therapies could enhance emotional healing.
By integrating Neuroaesthetics into treatment
protocols, healthcare providers could develop
comprehensive care plans that consider patients’
emotional and psychological needs alongside
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