Local Cancer Center Using Humor Therapy As Part Of Treatment
By Lynne Adkins
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Cancer patients are finding ways to laugh through the treatment during weekly laughter therapy sessions.
Doctors are using humor as medicine at Cancer Treatment Centers of America in Philadelphia.
Dr. Katherine Puckett, National Director of Mind-Body Medicine says laughter can take a patient's mind off cancer, at least for a while.
"Laughter can help release endorphins, which are those feel good chemicals in terms of boosting mood and decreasing pain, it can help the cardiovascular system and preliminary evidence that it gives the immune system a boost it sends more oxygen to the brain."
There are no comedians in the sessions, just silly and fun exercises and songs to give the participants a smile to help brighten the day.