'Strange toxic' prescriptions for terminal illness

The World Health Organization (WHO) has hosted a groundbreaking study on the impact of art on a range of incurable diseases, including cardiovascular disease, dementia, depression, and PTSD.

WHO's European Regional Branch conducted a large study, looking at data from 3,000 other scientific works around the world to gain an overview of the impact of art on human health.

Five broad categories of arts were considered:

• Performing arts (music, dance, singing, theater, movies);
• Visual arts (craft, design, painting, photography);
• Literary arts (writing, reading, attending literary festivals);
• Cultural art (visiting museums, galleries, concerts);
• Online art (animation, digital art) .

Scientists have demonstrated a clear connection between many of these arts with the positive change of patients suffering from mental and physical problems (diabetes, cardiovascular - sudden stroke, cerebral palsy, cancer .).

The Australian Didgeridoo trumpet has helped many patients improve their breathing - (artwork by SHUTTERSTOCK).

The authors cite some specific examples of regional culture. For example, Didgeridoo in Australia enhances respiratory function in men, manages asthma well and supports the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) . Meanwhile, writing calligraphy has been shown to help reduce the outbreak of anger , panic, anxiety in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), after many people were injured by earthquakes in China. . Choral singing, drumming or the effort to create small works of art can help reduce mental breakdown and problems related to depression - anxiety disorders in adults.

Dancing is beneficial for people with PTSD and diabetes , thanks to mechanisms that help regulate muscle tension, lower blood pressure and increase blood sugar control. Waltz alone was "prescribed" for patients with chronic heart failure because it improved heart function. For the group of dementia - an incurable disease that is the fifth leading cause of death in the world - scientists recommend patients to try knitting with friends.

"The examples cited in this groundbreaking WHO report show ways that art can solve" bad guys ", or complex health challenges such as diabetes, obesity and mental illness. The arts offer solutions that conventional medical practices have not been able to effectively address, "said Dr. Piroska Ostlin, WHO Regional Director for Europe.