Studies show Violent Television Weakens the Immune System

August 21st, 2005

In two separate studies there were measurable effects of a weakened immune system by watching violence on television. 

One study conducted by Duke University reflected that there was an increase in heart rates and blood pressure along with higher stress hormone levels. Originally published in the Medical Tribune in April 2005 issue, the researchers of this study believes that large amount of violence could be cause for major health problems. 

Another study conducted by researchers at Ohio State University found that good stress such as work related was good for the immune system.  They discovered that watching violent television weakened the immune system.

These researchers measured 34 participants after performing memory tasks and after watching a violent video.  They analyzed saliva samples and measured the secretory immunuglobulin A (SIgA) as well as the secretory component (SC).  The secretory immune system is the first defense system our body uses to protect the pathogens from entering into tissue. 

After the memory test the saliva measured an increased concentration level of the SIgA.  After watching the violent video the SIgA concentration levels were lowered.

There was also a measurement of the secretory component (SC) in both the memory task and the violent video was increased.  The researchers still believe that the since the lowered levels of SIgA there is a definite measurable weakening of the immune system from watching the violent television.

Secretory IgA (sIgA) and SC both are important to the immune system and activate human eosinophils.  Secretory IgA does not cause inflammation and is an important immune system defense.

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By Nicole Wilson
Best Syndication Staff Writer

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