Description:
Abstract Secondary brain tumors and neurocognitive damage from radiation or chemotherapy are often the commonest neuro-oncological problems in cancer. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women, with approximately 2 million women diagnosed in 2018.1 The 10-year survival rate for women diagnosed with breast cancer is 78% (World Cancer Research Fund, 2018). Although the 10-year survival rate is high, women who undergo chemotherapy can experience neurocognitive impairment resulting in significant effects of their cognitive functioning.2 Chemo related dysfunction is known as “chemobrain” or “chemofog.” Chemobrain can result in difficulty with attention, daily activities of living, and memory. This impacts people’s livelihoods and affects their general well-being. Current research on the topic of chemobrain in breast cancer survivors is minimal. However, this study aims to reduce the post-chemotherapy outcomes of chemobrain through the use of interactive versus receptive music. “Brain Fog” or chemobrain is the basis of significant neurological morbidities in the breast cancer population. It causes difficulty in people being able to even carry out activities of daily living. We have developed a prototype “ARMCan—a music software application to help breast cancer patients with “brain fog.” We are conducting a pilot feasibility study to beta test this interactive application which will promote executive function recovery in breast cancer patients with chemobrain.