Role of Laughter Clubs in Promotion of Health in Community (A Case Control Study)

Background: Health promotion covers all aspects of those activities that seek to improve the health status of individuals and communities. Many studies have proved that laughter has both, short term and long term benefits on our physical, mental and emotional health. The purpose was to assess role of 'laughter clubs' in promotion of health in the community. (A case control study).

Methodology: An experimental group (laughter club members) of 200 subjects and a control group of 200 were compared on the basis of three parameters; respiratory function assessed by peak expiratory pressure and maximal inspiratory pressure, flexibility measured by using a sit and reach test and quality of life was assessed by SF 36 questionnaire. Data analysis: Results were obtained using an 'unpaired t test' for comparing each parameter.

Results: Significant difference was found while comparing respiratory function using PEFR and PI max (p<0.001). Flexibility test was also statistically significant (p < 0.01). In case of quality of life physical health component was better in experimental group, whereas, mental health component was not found to be statistically significant. (p=0.24).

Conclusion: Laughter clubs definitely play a major role in promotion of health in the community, with respect to Respiratory function, flexibility and quality of life (physical component). However, its role is limited in influencing the mental component of quality of life.