Singing makes people feel good, but it does far more than that. Tenovus Cancer Care Charity sponsored a research to test 193 choir members of different areas, 55 of whom suffer from cancer. The choir members who participated in the test are from Bridgend, Cwmbran, Cardiff, Pontypridd and Swansea.
Scientists took their saliva for samples before and after they sing. The second sample batch, taken after one hour of singing, showed an improvement in mood, hormones, proteins and overall immune system.
Using visual analogs and saliva samples, the result was stunning. The scales proved a decrease in stress hormones and those who were anxious were reportedly having lower depression levels.
According to Science Daily, participants who suffer from depression were reportedly having better mood. The inflammations found in the body were also reduced.
Co-author Dr. Ian Lewis expressed his excitement in the findings. The evidence shows that choir singing gives biological and psychological benefits to cancer patients. It will have a huge impact that supports cancer patients as they are prone to stress and anxiety due to the illness.
Albeit the heartwarming result, researchers do not want to conclude that singing in choir beats cancer. Instead, it significantly reduces cortisol -- a hormone that triggers stress. Hence, the finding is said to be one of the best options in patients who receive cancer treatment, as per NHS.
On interpreting the result, experts said that a further research should be conducted to a more specific group. It will help identifying more psychological benefits. Dr. Otis Brawley from the American Cancer Society explains that patients' spirits were lifted up during singing. However, it would take 10 years to figure out exactly how participating in a choir could possibly reduce cancer risk.
