Preprint / Version 1

The Effect of Music Therapy on Pediatric Cancer Patients Physical and Psychological Health

##article.authors##

  • Hannah Shue Polygence

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58445/rars.3146

Keywords:

Music therapy, Cancer patients

Abstract

In this literature review, we summarize the effect of music therapy on cancer patients' physical and psychological well-being. We review the current literature, including randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and review papers. First, we describe the two types of music therapy and their distinctive qualities and benefits. Next, we focus on music therapy's individual effects on psychological health, concentrating on patients' stress levels, anxiety and depression symptoms, and emotional expression. We also examine music therapy’s effect on physical symptoms linked to cancer treatments. Finally, we summarize the limitations of extant research on music therapy, as well as future directions. Understanding the benefits of music therapy as a nonpharmacologic treatment provides a foundation for improving pediatric patients' quality of life during the course of their treatment and cancer journey.

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2025-09-28

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