Auricular point pressure with beans combined with psychological intervention on the mental health of cancer patients: A study

Cancer patients frequently experience psychological distress, including anxiety and depression, which adversely affects treatment adherence, recovery, and quality of life. While pharmacological treatments are available, non-drug strategies are increasingly sought for their safety and cultural acceptability. Auricular point pressure with beans (APB) is a simple, non-invasive technique believed to regulate autonomic balance, and brief psychological counseling can enhance coping skills and emotional regulation. However, evidence for their combined use in oncology is limited. This randomized controlled trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of APB combined with psychological intervention in reducing distress among cancer patients. Eighty participants with solid tumors and baseline Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) scores ≥ 8 were randomized equally to an intervention group (APB plus weekly 10–15-min psychological sessions) or a control group (usual care with neutral health education). Outcomes were assessed at baseline and after four weeks. Results showed significant improvements in both arms, but greater reductions in the intervention group. Mean HADS-Total decreased by 5.50 points in the intervention group compared with 1.60 in controls (between-group difference = 3.90, p < 0.001, Cohen’s d = 1.79). Both HADS-Anxiety and HADS-Depression subscales also improved significantly. Adverse events were rare and mild, including transient ear redness and itching. These findings suggest that APB combined with brief psychological counseling is a safe, feasible, and effective strategy for reducing psychological distress in cancer patients, supporting its integration into holistic oncology care.