EFFECT OF THE HOLY QURAN RECITATION ON THE PHYSIOLOGICAL RESPONSES IN PREMATURE INFANTS

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Fatima Noor
Muhammad Faisal Shafiq
Sahar Fatima

Abstract

Background: Premature infants are particularly susceptible to physiological instability due to underdeveloped organ systems, often requiring supportive interventions to regulate vital functions. In recent years, non-pharmacological therapies such as auditory stimulation have gained attention for their potential to promote relaxation and autonomic regulation. Among these, Quranic recitation—recognized for its rhythmic and soothing qualities—has emerged as a culturally meaningful approach to improving neonatal cardiorespiratory outcomes.


Objective: To evaluate the effects of Quranic recitation therapy on physiological parameters including heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature, and oxygen saturation in premature infants admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit.


Methods: This quasi-experimental pre-post study was conducted at the NICU of Combined Military Hospital, Multan, from 6 November 2024 to 6 April 2025. A total of 56 premature infants, with a mean age of 12.5 ± 4.3 days and mean gestational age of 32.4 ± 2.1 weeks, were enrolled using consecutive non-probability sampling. Physiological parameters were recorded before, during, and after a 20-minute daily Quranic recitation (Surah Ar-Rahman) session for three consecutive days. Measurements were taken using standardized NICU monitors and analyzed via paired t-tests and subgroup stratifications using SPSS version 23.


Results: Heart rate decreased significantly from 148.3 ± 12.4 bpm to 139.7 ± 9.6 bpm (p < 0.001), respiratory rate declined from 48.4 ± 16.2 to 41.8 ± 10.2 breaths/min (p < 0.001), and oxygen saturation increased from 94.2 ± 2.3% to 96.5 ± 1.7% (p < 0.001). No significant change was observed in temperature (36.8 ± 0.4°C to 36.9 ± 0.3°C; p = 0.12). Greater improvements were noted in infants with gestational age ≥32 weeks and birth weight ≥1500g.


Conclusion: Quranic recitation therapy significantly enhances physiological stability in premature neonates, especially those with higher maturity levels, and may serve as an effective, non-invasive adjunct in neonatal care.

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Author Biographies

Fatima Noor, CMH Multan, Pakistan.

MBBS PGR paediatrics CMH Multan, Pakistan.

Muhammad Faisal Shafiq, CMH Multan, Pakistan.

MBBS, FCPS Paediatrics, FCPs Neonatology, Assistant Professor, CMH Multan, Pakistan.

Sahar Fatima, CMH Multan , Pakistan.

MBBS PGR Paediatrics CMH Multan , Pakistan.