How music can help boost cognition in cancer patients and COVID-19 survivors

By Tina Meketa, University Communications and Marketing
Photo courtesy of Bryce Womeldurf, College of The Arts

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.

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