Study of the Therapeutic Effects of Proximal Intercessory Prayer (STEPP) on Auditory and Visual Impairments in Rural Mozambique Publication
This study by the Southern Medical Association investigated the potential therapeutic effects of proximal intercessory prayer (PIP) on hearing and vision impairments in rural Mozambique. PIP differs from distant intercessory prayer (DIP) in that the prayers are offered in the physical presence of the recipient. The researchers measured the hearing and vision of 24 participants (19 males, 5 females) before and after receiving PIP interventions.
The study found statistically significant improvements in both auditory and visual function following PIP. Hearing thresholds, measured at 3 kHz, showed significant improvement across the entire group. Similarly, binocular visual acuity increased significantly as well. The magnitude of these improvements exceeded what is typically observed in studies using suggestion or hypnosis.
It is important to note that this study has limitations. The sample size was relatively small, and the study design did not include a control group, making it difficult to definitively attribute the observed improvements to PIP itself. Additionally, the study was conducted in a specific cultural context, and the findings may not be generalizable to other populations.
Despite these limitations, the study suggests that PIP may warrant further investigation as a potential complementary therapy for certain individuals with hearing and vision impairments, especially in settings where access to conventional medical care is limited. Future studies with larger and more diverse samples, as well as controlled designs, are needed to confirm these findings and better understand the potential mechanisms by which PIP might exert its effects.
Authors: Candy Gunther Brown, PhD, Stephen C. Mory, MD, Rebecca Williams, MB BChir, DTM&H, Michael J. McClymond, PhD
- Published on:
- September 01, 2010
- Publisher:
- Southern Medical Journal
Southern Medical Association (Publisher)
About
Founded in 1845, the Southern Medical Association (SMA) is a professional organization for physicians and healthcare professionals in the Southern United States. It is the oldest regional medical association in the country, boasting a long history of promoting the health and well-being of individuals and communities across the South.
The SMA's mission is to advance the art and science of medicine, promote the health and welfare of the public, and serve as the voice for physicians in the Southern United States. They achieve these goals through various initiatives, including:
- Continuing medical education (CME) programs to ensure members stay up-to-date on the latest medical advancements.
- Advocacy efforts focused on influencing legislation and policy decisions that impact healthcare delivery in the South.
- Community outreach programs to address public health concerns and promote healthy living practices.
- Providing resources and support to help members succeed in their careers, including practice management tools and patient education materials.
The SMA welcomes physicians, residents, medical students, and other healthcare professionals as members, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing within the southern medical community. They also offer various resources for the public, including educational materials and information on finding a qualified healthcare provider.
Over the years, the SMA has played a significant role in shaping healthcare in the Southern United States. They have advocated for advancements in medical research, education, and access to quality healthcare for all. As the organization continues to evolve, they remain dedicated to serving the needs of their members and improving the health of the communities they represent.
AI Generated