Humor Therapy and Distress After Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation

The Effect of Humor Therapy on Perceived Distress After Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation

This research study evaluates the impact of a humor intervention on distress (primary outcome), hope, depressive symptoms, anxiety, and pain (secondary outcomes) in patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT).

Patients undergoing allo-HSCT often experience substantial psychological distress during hospitalization and after discharge. Research in pediatric patients with cancer as well as geriatric patients suggests that psychosocial burden might be decreased by humor therapy. Studies addressing the impact of humor therapy in adult patients with cancer are lacking.

This randomized controlled trial primarily aims at assessing the effect of therapeutic humor on global distress in patients during their hospital stay for allo-HSCT. In addition, the study investigates hope, depressive symptoms, anxiety, and pain as secondary outcomes. The outcomes are measured via questionnaires.

Study results may be beneficial for patients who experience distress during hospitalization for allo-HSCT.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age ≥ 18 years
• Admission for allogeneic transplantation at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf

Exclusion Criteria:

• Insufficient German language skills