Faith's impact on health. Implications for the practice of medicine

The role of religiousness/spirituality (R/S) in health has been of growing interest in the medical literature in recent years. Studies have demonstrated enhanced health effects from religious prescriptions and proscriptions, religious/spiritual social support, and specific attitudes and behaviors linked to deep spiritual belief (e.g., compassionate view toward others and active religious surrender). This article reviews the recent literature on the role of R/S in health and offers suggestions on how physicians can explore whether their patient's R/S is a source of strength. Examples of simple questions that can be incorporated into a routine visit are presented. Physicians who ask about R/S issues may help patients recognize new ways of coping, new avenues for social support, and new sources of courage and hope.