Surveys and Research
SINFONIA Singing for breathing trial
SINFONIA is a multi-site, online singing for breathing trial for people with COPD or ILD and their caregivers. This study is led by a research team at Monash University (A/Prof Natasha Smallwood) and aims to investigate if group singing classes assist with improvement in symptom management and overall wellbeing. The trial is not just limited to people in Victoria, as people from around Australia can be referred or self-refer to take part. In case you are interested in telling your patients about the study, the eligibility criteria are:
- Patients aged over 18 with a confirmed diagnosis of COPD or ILD on lung function (within last 2 years) or CT (last 5 years)
- Stable on treatment for at least 4 weeks (i.e. no new or changed cardiorespiratory medications or hospital admissions for COPD or ILD)
- Breathless: mMRC ≥ 2
- NOT currently participating in pulmonary rehabilitation
- Capable and willing to give informed consent
- Carers aged over 18 years may also participate
Participants in the online singing group will attend a 90-minute online group singing session once a week, for 12 weeks. People randomised to the control group (delayed entry) will be offered to join the singing sessions after 3 months.
Patients or clinicians can refer by contacting our team’s research assistant Catherine Buchan: c.buchan@alfred.org.au.
