Singing and COPD 2019-2020
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Singing and COPD: A pilot randomised controlled trial 2019-2020
IRAS ID
252628
Contact name
Stephen Clift
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Canterbury Christ Church University
ISRCTN Number
ISRCTN42943709
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 1 months, 29 days
Research summary
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a long-term and progressive respiratory disease which negatively affects people’s health and wellbeing. The condition deteriorates over time, and there is no cure. However, there is evidence that activities like regular exercise and singing can improve breathlessness and general health and wellbeing.
Previous research has shown positive benefits of singing for respiratory illness, but two recent reviews of the evidence highlights the need for further larger-scale controlled studies with follow-up.
We plan to set up a randomised controlled trial to assess the potential benefits of singing for COPD patients in Medway. A total of 100 patients with moderate to very severe COPD will be recruited, assessed and then randomised into two arms of the trial. Half will participate in a singing programme and half will receive usual care. The singing programme will be implemented over 10 ninety minute sessions. The programme will involve breathing exercises and songs which will encourage controlled breathing and progressive extension of the time taken to breathe out.
Participants who are NOT in the singing groups will be offered the opportunity to join a singing group after the final data gathering session.
For all participants, assessments of lung function, breathing patterns and exercise will be gathered before and after three months of weekly singing and then at follow-up after a further three months. Participants will also to complete questionnaires about their breathing, quality of life, personal and mental wellbeing and use of medication and health services.
This information will help us to assess in a controlled and rigorous way whether singing for people with COPD helps them to manage their breathing difficulties more effectively and contributes to feelings of quality of life and wellbeing. It will also provide the basis for a larger-scale trial running in several areas.
REC name
London - Queen Square Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
19/LO/0159
Date of REC Opinion
19 Feb 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion