The hypothesis was that a one-year experience of choir singing once a week is more beneficial than group discussions to saliva concentration of testosterone.
The project aimed to study the health effects of regular choir singing for persons who are in a psychosomatic condition (Irritable Bowel syndrome - IBS). A group of IBS patients were randomized to choir singing or an information group were followed during one year with biological and psychosocial assessments. The choir group participated in various relaxation, breathing and vocal exercises with the choir leader, and received the material "To live with IBS" for home studies. At the same time a comparison group with IBS patients meet in groups, studying and discussing on the same materials under the direction of a group leader. Both groups meet once per week.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
55
Choir group participated in various relaxation, breathing and vocal exercises with the choir leader, and received the material "To Live with IBS" for home studies, weekly for 1 year. Saliva testosterone assessed 6 times per occasion; baseline, after 6, 9 and 12 months.
Meet in groups, studying and discussing on the same materials under the direction of a group leader, weekly, for 1 year. Saliva testosterone assessed 6 times per occasion; baseline, after 6, 9 and 12 months.
Unnamed facility
Stockholm, Sweden
More reduction in bowel pain according to standardised international IBS questionnaire in choir group than in study group after one year.
Time frame: 1 year
Significant increase in saliva testosterone concentration during study period in choir group.
Time frame: 1 year
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.