Public radio’s longest-running daily global news program.
©2025 The World from PRX
PRX is a 501(c)(3) organization recognized by the IRS: #263347402.

A new study indicates that laughter helps people cope with pain.
(Photo: David Shankbone/Wikipedia)
You may not necessarily find old episodes of “Friends” to be hilarious, but apparently laughter really can be the best medicine.
Researchers of a new study at Oxford University found that a good giggle meant the volunteers could withstand up to 10 percent more pain.
Anchor Lisa Mullins talks to Mark van Vugt, who is a co-author of the study.