Montefiore Einstein Cancer Centre is reverberating with laughter. The purpose of the jokes and funny anecdotes was to help the cancer patients. The patients were participating in Montefiore Hospital’s monthly "Strength Through Laughter" therapy. 

Humor Therapy is being prescribed as a cure for patients diagnosed with cancer and other chronic diseases. Jokes, funny movies and even clown appearances are apart of the Humor sessions.

Though researchers are not very sure about healing effects of laughter but they do agree that laughter boosts bodily functions. It infuses a sense of well-being, and improves muscle function and breathing.

Medical experts do not recommend that cancer patients should discontinue traditional treatments. Laughter therapy acts in enhancing the effect of the treatment.

Sherry Dunay Hilber, past director of prime time programming for CBS and ABC has developed a series of programs available to hospitals, nursing homes, clinics and cancer support groups through Rx Laughter, a non-profit organization. The aim of the program is to provide funny material for patient viewing.

According to Hilber, "Watching our favorite shows and films can get us through very stressful times — all the more important in light of the cost of psychotherapy that many people cannot afford, and the problematic side effects of too many pain killers."

A good sense of humor is always beneficial. Laughter therapy may be difficult proposition for some cancer patients, especially immediately after being diagnosed. But laughter therapy might decrease the  need for medications, provide needed social support, and promote a better quality of life.