"SingStrong": Singing for better lung health in COPD - A pilot study

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Medicine
• Rehabilitation
• Psychosocial Health

Background:

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) impacts biopsychosocial health in up to 440,000 Irish individuals.
• Community-based interventions promoting self-management and behavioral change are recommended for COPD patients.
• This pilot study investigated a singing intervention for improving COPD patient wellness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of an 8-week group singing intervention called "SingStrong".
• To assess the impact of singing on biopsychosocial wellness in adults with COPD.

Main Methods:

• Seventy-eight adults with COPD participated in the 8-week "SingStrong" program.
• Assessments included the Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), COPD Assessment Test (CAT), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and spirometry.
• Qualitative data were gathered through post-intervention focus groups.

Main Results:

• A statistically significant improvement was observed in the 6MWT (p = .02).
• Non-significant improvements were noted in CAT and HADS Depression scores.
• Qualitative feedback was overwhelmingly positive, reporting better breathing and quality of life.

Conclusions:

• Singing interventions show promise for improving lung health and quality of life in individuals with COPD.
• Further research with longer durations is recommended to assess impact on exacerbations, hospitalizations, and medication use.