A pilot study into the therapeutic effects of music therapy at a cancer help center

Context Since the mid-1980s, music therapy has been a regular feature of th e residential program at the internationally renowned Bristol Cancer Help C entre, United Kingdom. Music therapy complements other therapeutic interven tions available to residents at the center. Objective To compare the therapeutic effects of listening to music in a rel axed state with the active involvement of music improvisation (the playing of tuned and untuned percussion instruments) in a music therapy group setti ng and to investigate the potential influence of music therapy on positive emotions and the immune system of cancer patients. Design A quantitative pre-posttest, psychological/physiological measure, an d qualitative focus group design. Setting A cancer help center that offers a fully integrated range of comple mentary therapies, psychological support, spiritual healing, and nutritiona l and self-help techniques addressing the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs of cancer patients and their supporters. Participants Twenty-nine cancer patients, aged 21 to 68 years. Intervention Group music therapy interventions of listening to recorded/liv e music in a relaxed state and improvisation. Main Outcome Measures Increased well-being and relaxation and less tension during the listening experience. Increased well-being and energy and less t ension during improvisation. Increased levels of salivary immunoglobulin A and decreased levels of cortisol in both experiences. Results Psychological data showed increased well-being nd relaxation as wel l as altered energy levels in both interventions. Physiological data showed increased salivary immunoglobulin A in the listening experience and a decr ease in cortisol levels in both interventions over a 2-day period. prelimin ary evidence of a link between positive emotions and the immune system of c ancer patients was found.