Study of the Therapeutic Effects of Intercessory Prayer (STEP)

Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery Clinical Trial

Official title: Study of the Therapeutic Effects of Intercessory Prayer (STEP)

Status Completed

Clinical Trial Summary

Intercessory prayer is widely believed to influence recovery from illness, but claims of benefits are not supported by well-controlled clinical trials. Prior studies have not addressed whether prayer itself or knowledge/certainty that prayer is being provided may influence outcome. We evaluated whether (1) receiving intercessory prayer or (2) being certain of receiving intercessory prayer was associated with uncomplicated recovery after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.

Clinical Trial Description

Intercessory prayer is widely believed to influence recovery from illness, but claims of benefits are not supported by well-controlled clinical trials. Prior studies have not addressed whether prayer itself or knowledge/certainty that prayer is being provided may influence outcome. We evaluated whether (1) receiving intercessory prayer or (2) being certain of receiving intercessory prayer was associated with uncomplicated recovery after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. ;

Study Design

Allocation: Randomized, Endpoint Classification: Efficacy Study, Intervention Model: Parallel Assignment, Masking: Double Blind (Subject, Investigator, Outcomes Assessor), Primary Purpose: Treatment

Related Conditions & MeSH terms

• Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery

• NCT number: NCT00179491
• Study type: Interventional
• Source: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
• Status: Completed
• Phase: Phase 3
• Start date: April 1998
• Completion date: November 2001