The effect of spiritual healing on cancer cell growth
Author Information
Author(s): Zachariae R, Højgaard L, Zachariae C, Væth M, Bang B, Skov L
Primary Institution: Aarhus University Hospital
Hypothesis
Spiritual healing will reduce proliferation and viability of two cancer cell lines in vitro.
Conclusion
The study found no significant effects of spiritual healing on the growth of cancer cells.
Supporting Evidence
- The study included three different healers and randomised allocation of cells.
- Statistical analyses were conducted by blinded researchers.
- Results showed no significant differences in cell growth between healing and control groups.
Takeaway
The study tested if spiritual healing could help cancer cells grow slower, but it didn't work.
Methodology
Three controlled experiments were conducted with randomised allocation of cells to healing or control groups, and various assays were used to measure cell viability and proliferation.
Potential Biases
The healers' intentions and the psychological aspects of the healer-patient relationship could introduce bias.
Limitations
The doses of healing used may have been inadequate, and the study only focused on two specific cancer cell lines.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P=0.90
Statistical Significance
p>0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website