Effectiveness of a Music Therapy Intervention in Cancer Patients Under Active Treatment at the University Hospital of Jaén: A Non-Randomized Controlled Trial

Introduction: The diagnosis and evolution of cancer generate a multidimensional impact (physical, psychological, emotional, social, and spiritual) on the patient. Some active treatments entail long stays in the day hospital, which can deteriorate patients' quality of life. Objective: To analyze the effectiveness of a live music session in cancer patients under active treatment. Specifically, its impact on anxiety, treatment-related symptoms, satisfaction, and perception of session duration was assessed. Method: A non-randomized controlled trial of two parallel arms with pre-post measurement was conducted in patients with active intravenous cancer treatment at the University Hospital of Jaén (n = 125; GI = 60; CG = 65). Results: The findings reflect that the intervention group significantly reduced the need for nursing care (OR = 0.89; 95% CI: 0.82 - 0.97) and perceived that the treatment proceeded faster (OR = 4.60; 95% CI: 1.80 - 11.79). Likewise, the assessment that the infusion was more enjoyable was significantly higher in the intervention group compared to the control group (3.78 ± 0.98 vs. 3.08 ± 0.71; p < 0.001). No significant differences in anxiety were achieved. Conclusion: A single live music session makes the treatment be perceived as shorter and more enjoyable; in addition to a favorable clinical trend toward better tolerance of cancer treatment.