Overview

This clinical trial aims to show how music therapy can help reduce or eliminate anxiety for teenagers and young adults. This is not targeted at all teenagers and young adults but, more specifically, at those who are currently receiving cancer treatment.

Study Information

Teenagers and young adults who are being treated in the oncology department can participate in a twelve week program. The program attempts to lessen the symptoms of stress and/or anxiety for these young people through a form of musical therapy. It is an interventional, single group assignment with the primary purpose of giving supportive care. The study began on January 22, 2019 and is estimated to be completed by December 31, 2020.

Inclusion Criteria

• All sexes, ages 15 to 39 years old are eligible to participate
• Have a diagnosis of any cancer
• Have begun treatment for cancer and plan to receive active cancer treatment (e.g., radiation, chemotherapy, or oral chemotherapy) over the next eight weeks
• Have signed informed consent/assent to participate
• Be willing to participate in all study activities
• Must speak/read English

Exclusion Criteria

• Have a prognosis of over 3 months of having cancer
• Do not have the desire or ability to physically interact with musical instruments (e.g., hold instruments)
• Documented proof of significant hearing loss (e.g., deaf)

Location

You may participate in this study at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, Massachusetts. If you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact Robert Knoerl, PhD, RN at 617-632-6386 or at Robert_knoerl@DFCI.Harvard.edu.

Sponsors/Collaborators

This clinical trial is sponsored, solely, by the Dana Farber Cancer Institute with Robert Knoerl, PhD, RN serving as the Principal Investigator.