Researchers from Australia’s Monash University and the UK’s Cambridge University conducted a study involving 101 patients in Australia. Half participated in a 12-week online group singing program, while the other half received usual care. During 90-minute sessions, participants sang songs such as Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” The Beatles’ “Let It Be,” and “Pack Up Your Troubles.”

The results showed that the singing group improved quality of life scores by an average of 7.4 points compared to the other group, increasing to 11 points for those who attended eight or more sessions, which researchers described as a “clinically important difference.” Benefits were more pronounced among women and those suffering from anxiety and depression.

Professor Natasha Smallwood from Monash University, who presented the findings at the European Respiratory Society conference in Amsterdam, said, “Chronic breathlessness is a common and very distressing symptom for lung disease patients, and effective treatment options remain limited. Group singing shows promise as a supportive option, but more research is needed, especially in interstitial lung diseases.”

Dr. Apollos Bossios, head of the respiratory expert team at the European Society, confirmed that “chronic lung diseases have no definitive cure, and it is important to seek non-pharmacological strategies to improve patients’ lives. This study adds new evidence on the importance of singing as a supportive method.”

Similarly, Sarah Sleat, CEO of the Asthma and Lung UK charity, said, “Singing helps control breathing and stimulates the release of happiness hormones, naturally reflecting positively on lung patients’ health. It is good that research in this area is expanding, as it can offer patients a chance to improve their health and enjoy their time.”