But are the patients healthier?

Here are results from a study presented during the 2008 American Heart Association’s Fall Conference for High Blood Pressure Research.

First, the details.

• Elderly participants were divided into 2 groups for this 4-month study.
  • 20 people listened 3 times a week to a 12-minute audio-guided relaxation training program (ATP), with background sounds of ocean waves and a calming voice.
  • 21 people listened to a 12-minute Mozart sonata 3 times a week.
• Systolic blood pressure (higher number), diastolic blood pressure (lower number), and heart rate before and after each session were recorded.

And, the results.
In the ATP group…

• Blood pressure went from 141/73 to 132/70 mmHg — a significant difference for systolic, but not diastolic pressure.
• Heart rate from 73 to 70 beats per minute — a non-significant difference.

In the Mozart group…

• Blood pressure went from 141/71 to 134/69 mmHg — a significant difference for systolic, but not diastolic pressure.
• Heart rate from 69 to 66 beats per minute — a non-significant difference.

When comparing the groups…

• The decrease in systolic blood pressure was greater with ATP vs Mozart: 6.4% (9 mmHg) vs 5% (7 mmHg).

The bottom line?
In explaining the results, Dr. Jean Tang from the College of Nursing at Seattle University in Washington said, “It has been suggested that a 5 mmHg reduction in systolic blood pressure [as accomplished in this study] would result in a 9% reduction in coronary heart disease related death and 14% reduction in stroke related death.”

So, although diastolic pressure and heart rate didn’t change, Dr. Tang concluded, “This program may provide yet another way to help manage hypertension in conjunction with medication, lifestyle changes, exercise, diet, and stress management.”

In the article on the Medical News Today website, the author explains the rationale behind using ATP.

9/21/08 17:12 JR