Dive in to the research and findings behind Singing for Lung Health (SLH) programs for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These programs aim to evaluate the effects of singing on lung health in these patients and focus on improvements in symptoms, respiratory lung function, and quality of life.
According to the CDC, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States, which accounts for 16 million patients who are diagnosed and many more who are undiagnosed. For patients, it’s a tough condition that makes breathing difficult and affects the overall quality of life. Traditional treatments include medications, pulmonary rehabilitation, and lifestyle changes. Recently, researchers evaluated the effect of singing on lung health in patients with COPD through virtual sessions, called Singing for Lung Health (SLH) programs, which focused on improvements in symptoms, respiratory lung function, and quality of life.
Background
Published guidelines from the American Thoracic Society and European Respiratory Society have pulmonary rehabilitation with physical exercise training (PExT) as central to COPD management. Many patients do not attend and/or fail to complete these programs. One major barrier is the lack of its lack of availability. To address this unmet need, investigators are exploring the benefits of singing. Previous studies have alluded to the benefits of singing on both physical and psychosocial outcomes; yet standard clinical measures have yet to be compared.
Study Design/Methods
This double-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial was conducted in Denmark between August 2017 and May 2019 across 11 different centers. Participants were eligible if they had a confirmed diagnosis of COPD, were in stable condition, and were able to participate in online sessions. Those with severe cognitive impairments, uncontrolled other health issues, or no internet access were excluded.
Eligible participants were randomly assigned to either the control group (PExT) or SLH (Singing for Lung Health) group. Traditionally, SLH programs occur face-to-face and are designed to harness the physical and emotional benefits of singing to boost respiratory function and overall happiness. To overcome common mobility, distance, and other barriers, this study held weekly virtual SLH sessions. Each session was led by trained facilitators and included breathing exercises, vocal warm-ups, singing, and movement activities, including materials to practice at home between sessions.
Results
A total of 140 participants were eligible. After one year, 18 of the initial 28 participants who participated in the SLH program were reassessed. Overall, results showed significant improvements in the intervention group compared to the control group across several key measures, namely, fewer respiratory symptoms, better exercise capacity, and an improved quality of life. Lung function tests also showed modest but notable improvements, supporting the physiological benefits of the intervention.
Clinical Outcomes
- 6MWT saw a mean increase of 65 meters
- HADS anxiety score reduction of 0.9 units from baseline
- Lung Function Tests
- RV, mean decrease 130 mL
- TLC, mean decrease 150 mL
- Averaged 85% attendance rate
Quantitative Analysis
- Increased social connection
- Sense of purpose and meaningful participation
While additional studies are warranted, these findings demonstrate clinical benefits of virtual SLH sessions in respiratory care, which may have the potential to transform COPD management and overcome common physical and geographic barriers.
Reference
Philip KEJ, Buttery SC, Bowen S, et al. Singing for lung health in COPD: a multicentre randomised controlled trial of online delivery. BMJ Open Respiratory Research 2024;11:e002365. doi: 10.1136/bmjresp-2024-002365 https://bmjopenrespres.bmj.com/content/11/1/e002365
