A Brief Patient-Controlled Intervention for a Symptom Cluster in Advanced Cancer

The purpose of the research is to test the efficacy of a patient-controlled cognitive-behavioral intervention for pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance during cancer treatment, and to evaluate moderators and mediators of intervention effects. The intervention uses guided imagery, relaxation exercises, and nature sound recordings, self-administered via an MP3 player. The study will determine (1) if the intervention helps to control symptoms during chemotherapy, (2) if personal and clinical characteristics influence how well the intervention works, and (3) if the cognitive-behavioral strategies reduce markers of stress and inflammation found in blood and saliva.