Medical Oddities: Prayer for Pain?

This week’s research collection showed that biology, behavior, and environment often intersect in unexpected ways.

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A randomized controlled trial tested the effects of 5 minutes of Christian prayer versus relaxing music on pain and anxiety in adults.
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Participants in the prayer group reported greater reductions in pain immediately and at 2 weeks compared to those who listened to music.
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Improvements in anxiety were noted immediately and persisted for 6 weeks among participants receiving prayer.
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The study population was predominantly Black, female, and low-income, with no variation in effects based on religious affiliation.
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97% of participants expressed interest in having similar prayer opportunities available during future medical visits.

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