Singing as an adjunct therapy for children and adults with cystic fibrosis

People with cystic fibrosis are at risk of chest infections due to abnormally thick mucus in their airways. Airway clearance is therefore an important part of cystic fibrosis management. Increasing anecdotal reports suggests that singing may support lung function and enhance quality of life in people with cystic fibrosis. We searched for trials using the standard search methods of the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group, and conducted extensive searches in other relevant databases and publications. One small study evaluated the effects of singing on the quality of life and lung function of children with cystic fibrosis who are in hospital. This study compared singing with other non-physical leisure activities, such as playing computer games or watching movies. The included study was limited by the small number of participants (only 51 participants) and a high drop-out rate (21%). The study assessed the impacts of singing on respiratory muscle strength, quality of life and lung function tests. It found a statistically significant difference in maximal expiratory pressure (a substitute measure of respiratory muscle strength) in favour of singing at one time point. However, both the singing and control groups showed improvements in some quality of life measurements; and no differences were reported in other lung function measures. There is currently not enough evidence to show that singing can improve clinical outcomes in people with cystic fibrosis. Future studies using robust methods are needed to assess the possible effects of singing for people with cystic fibrosis.