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Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI), colloquially called “chemobrain”, raises controversies. This side effect of anticancer therapies can affect up to 35% of cancer survivors and may persist many years after treatments. CRCI impedes transitioning to a new normal after cancer, but there is a lack of clinical guidelines, and no proven pharmacological treatment. Given the evidence of the benefits of group singing for various populations, it may have positive outcomes on selected symptoms, well-being and health-related quality of life.

This mixed-methods study explores the acceptability, feasibility and effects of group singing on perceived physical, emotional and cognitive symptoms in adults with CRCI.

Opéra de Montréal’s Impact Program inspired our group intervention Singing to take care of us. Using adapted opera vocal techniques, a choir conductor directed 15 participants during 24 group singing sessions over spring and autumn 2025. A type 2 effectiveness-implementation hybrid design mobilized individual, focus group interviews and pre-post questionnaires data. The implementation analysis explored acceptability from professionals in oncology and choir participants, while effectiveness focused on changes in perceived symptoms.

Results suggest acceptability of group singing and significant improvements among participants with CRCI in tiredness, drowsiness, sadness, anxiety and overall well-being. Reasons to take part in group singing include enjoyment, protecting time for oneself and sharing lived experience with others.

By combining the art of opera with health, our intervention contributes to efforts to demonstrate the power of group singing as a tool for promoting sustainable health and well-being.