In a first-of-its-kind study, University of South Florida researchers are finding that music can help boost cognition in patients undergoing chemotherapy. In partnership with Moffitt Cancer Center, Jennifer Bugos, USF professor of music education, and breast surgical oncologist Dr. Melissa Mallory, have been examining the effects of private and group piano lessons on cognition and everyday functioning in patients.
"We are interested in examining whether social support while learning a musical instrument can increase cognition in patients undergoing treatment for cancer when holding curriculum constant, which areas of cognition may be improved and what duration of music training is optimal for patients," Bugos said. The piano training protocol, Keys to Staying Sharp, includes more comprehensive instruction than your typical piano lesson, with more patterns and repetition. While studies have been conducted on cancer patients in remission, never before has piano training been offered to those undergoing chemotherapy.
"Receiving a cancer diagnosis and undergoing cancer treatment can significantly impact mental health and overall patient wellness. Identifying new strategies to improve outcomes in these arenas—especially medication-free options—is needed to facilitate truly comprehensive patient-centric cancer care," Mallory said. Preliminary data suggests the musicians demonstrated enhanced executive functions after receiving group piano lessons and have self-reported that the.
