Breathing exercises to reduce anxiety before cancer surgery

This trial is testing whether a guided breathing program can help reduce anxiety in patients with peritoneal carcinosis (cancer in the lining of the abdomen) before they have surgery. The breathing technique, called cardiac coherence, involves learning specific, rhythmic breathing patterns designed to calm your nervous system. Researchers want to see if this non-medication approach can help patients feel less anxious and better cope with their diagnosis and upcoming surgery.

Many cancer patients experience significant anxiety and emotional distress, which can affect their quality of life and willingness to stay engaged with treatment. Currently, doctors often rely on anti-anxiety medications like benzodiazepines, which don't always work well. This trial exists to test whether a simple, drug-free breathing technique might be a better option for helping patients manage anxiety before their surgery.