Is there a religious factor in health?

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Sociology of Religion
• Public Health

Background:

• Empirical research on religion and health has a long history.
• Epidemiologists frequently lack a deep understanding of religion as a variable.
• Operational and methodological challenges exist in studying religion and health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review epidemiologic studies that use religion as an independent construct.
• To clarify operational and methodological issues in religion-health research.
• To propose an agenda for future research in this field.

Main Methods:

• Historical overview of religion and health research.
• Theoretical considerations of religion as a health factor.
• Systematic review of over 200 empirical studies.

Main Results:

• Most epidemiologists demonstrate a limited appreciation for religion's role in health.
• Studies were reviewed across nine diverse health-related areas.
• Specific health areas examined include cardiovascular disease, cancer, and general mortality.

Conclusions:

• There is a need for improved understanding and operationalization of religion in epidemiological research.
• Further research is essential to elucidate the multifaceted links between religion and health outcomes.
• An agenda for future research directions is presented to guide the field.