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Dutton E, Kirkegaard E. Do conservatives really have an advantage in mental health? An examination of measurement invariance. Scand J Psychol 2024. [PMID: 39182169 DOI: 10.1111/sjop.13065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Many studies have found that conservatives show an advantage in mental health and happiness and various causes of this have been debated (e.g., religiousness, ideology, or genetics). However, not much attention has been given to examining whether this advantage is psychometrically real, or whether it is due to test bias. We analyzed data from two large Finnish surveys of adults (Ns = 848 and 4,978) from Lahtinen (2024), that measured general anxiety and depression symptoms, as well as a new wokeness scale. Using differential item functioning tests, we found no evidence for measurement bias in these scales. The correlation between index scores of wokeness and mental health (internalizing) was -0.36, which increased to -0.41 when measurement error was removed. The association between wokeness and anxiety (r = -0.33, adjusted r = 0.37) was stronger than wokeness and depression (r = 0.20, adjusted r = 0.22).
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Ashe J, Bentley-Edwards K, Skipper A, Cuevas A, Vieytes CM, Bah K, Evans MK, Zonderman AB, Waldstein SR. Racial Discrimination, Religious Coping, and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Among African American Women and Men. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024:10.1007/s40615-024-02113-x. [PMID: 39160432 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-024-02113-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This cross-sectional study examined whether religious coping buffered the associations between racial discrimination and several modifiable cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors-systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), body mass index (BMI), and cholesterol-in a sample of African American women and men. METHODS Participant data were taken from the Healthy Aging in Neighborhoods of Diversity Across the Life Span study (N = 815; 55.2% women; 30-64 years old). Racial discrimination and religious coping were self-reported. CVD risk factors were clinically assessed. RESULTS In sex-stratified hierarchical regression analyses adjusted for age, socioeconomic status, and medication use, findings revealed several significant interactive associations and opposite effects by sex. Among men who experienced racial discrimination, religious coping was negatively related to systolic BP and HbA1c. However, in men reporting no prior discrimination, religious coping was positively related to most risk factors. Among women who had experienced racial discrimination, greater religious coping was associated with higher HbA1c and BMI. The lowest levels of CVD risk were observed among women who seldom used religious coping but experienced discrimination. CONCLUSION Religious coping might mitigate the effects of racial discrimination on CVD risk for African American men but not women. Additional work is needed to understand whether reinforcing these coping strategies only benefits those who have experienced discrimination. It is also possible that religion may not buffer the effects of other psychosocial stressors linked with elevated CVD risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Ashe
- Laboratory of Epidemiology and Population Sciences, National Institute On Aging, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Keisha Bentley-Edwards
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Samuel DuBois Cook Center On Social Equity, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Antonius Skipper
- The Gerontology Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Adolfo Cuevas
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, New York University School of Global Public Health, New York, NY, USA
- Center for Anti-Racism, Social Justice, and Public Health, New York University School of Global Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christian Maino Vieytes
- Laboratory of Epidemiology and Population Sciences, National Institute On Aging, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kristie Bah
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Michele K Evans
- Laboratory of Epidemiology and Population Sciences, National Institute On Aging, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Alan B Zonderman
- Laboratory of Epidemiology and Population Sciences, National Institute On Aging, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Shari R Waldstein
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Division of Gerontology, Geriatrics, and Palliative Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Vagnini KM, Morozink Boylan J, Adams M, Masters KS. Multidimensional Religiousness and Spirituality Are Associated With Lower Interleukin-6 and C-Reactive Protein at Midlife: Findings From the Midlife in the United States Study. Ann Behav Med 2024; 58:552-562. [PMID: 38913861 PMCID: PMC11237894 DOI: 10.1093/abm/kaae032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Religiousness and spirituality (R/S) are associated with lower morbidity and mortality, yet the physiological mechanisms underlying these associations are under-studied. Chronic inflammation is a plausible biological mechanism linking R/S to downstream health given the sensitivity of the immune system to the social environment and the role of inflammation in many chronic diseases. PURPOSE The purpose of the present study was to examine associations between multiple R/S dimensions and two markers of chronic inflammation, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP). METHODS In this cross-sectional study, data came from biological subsamples of two cohorts from the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) Study (combined N = 2,118). Predictors include six R/S measures (service attendance, spirituality, private religious practices, daily spiritual experiences, religious coping, and R/S-based mindfulness). Outcomes include log-transformed IL-6 and CRP. Covariates include age, gender, cohort, race, educational attainment, body mass index (BMI), smoking status, and physical activity. RESULTS Older adults, women (vs. men), non-White (vs. White) adults, those with higher BMIs, current smokers, and those not meeting physical activity guidelines had significantly higher IL-6 and CRP. In fully adjusted models, greater spirituality, daily spiritual experiences, religious coping, and R/S-based mindfulness were associated with lower IL-6. Higher spirituality was also associated with lower CRP. CONCLUSIONS Many dimensions of R/S may be health protective for adults given their associations with lower levels of chronic inflammation. Findings underscore the importance of examining multiple dimensions of R/S to understand mechanistic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlyn M Vagnini
- Department of Psychology, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, Colorado, USA
- Center for Health Policy and Health Services Research, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Jennifer Morozink Boylan
- Department of Health and Behavioral Sciences, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Monica Adams
- Department of Health and Behavioral Sciences, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Kevin S Masters
- Department of Psychology, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, Colorado, USA
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Ashe JJ, Evans MK, Zonderman AB, Waldstein SR. Absent Relations of Religious Coping to Telomere Length in African American and White Women and Men. Exp Aging Res 2024; 50:459-481. [PMID: 37258109 PMCID: PMC10687320 DOI: 10.1080/0361073x.2023.2219187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study investigated whether race and sex moderated the relations of religious coping to telomere length (TL), a biomarker of cellular aging implicated in race-related health disparities. METHODS Participant data were drawn from the Healthy Aging in Neighborhoods of Diversity across the Life Span (HANDLS) study, which included 252 socioeconomically diverse African American and White men and women aged (30-64 years old). Cross-sectional multivariable regression analyses examined interactive associations of religious coping, race, and sex to TL, adjusting for other sociodemographic characteristics. RESULTS Religious coping was unrelated to TL in this sample (p's > .05). There were no notable race or sex differences. Post hoc exploratory analyses similarly found that neither secular social support coping use nor substance use coping was associated with TL. CONCLUSION There was no evidence to support that religious coping use provided protective effects to TL in this sample of African American and White women and men. Nevertheless, future studies should use more comprehensive assessments of religious coping and intersectional identities to provide an in-depth examination of religiosity/spirituality as a potential culturally salient protective factor in cellular aging among African Americans in the context of specific chronic stressors such as discrimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason J. Ashe
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD, US
| | - Michele K. Evans
- Laboratory of Epidemiology and Population Sciences, National Institute on Aging, Baltimore, MD, US
| | - Alan B. Zonderman
- Laboratory of Epidemiology and Population Sciences, National Institute on Aging, Baltimore, MD, US
| | - Shari R. Waldstein
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD, US
- Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, US
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Módis LV, Aradi Z, Horváth IF, Pikó P, Papp G, Osváth M, Szántó A, Bugán A. Spirituality is associated with immune parameters and disease activity in primary Sjögren's syndrome: a cross-sectional study. Sci Rep 2024; 14:12473. [PMID: 38816520 PMCID: PMC11139944 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62801-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The role of spirituality in health and disease is a complex and emerging area of research. Incorporating spirituality into the bio-psycho-social model of health and disease leading to the bio-psycho-social-spiritual model provides a more comprehensive framework. In this context, chronic disorders like primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) are of interest due to their intricate interactions between biological, psychological, and spiritual factors. This study explored the relationship between spirituality, immune parameters, and disease activity in pSS patients. Data from 108 patients were analyzed, including self-assessed spirituality (answering to direct questions and completing the Spiritual Transcendence Scale), immunological parameters and disease activity scores. The findings revealed several associations. Individuals with spiritual attitudes or engaged in regular prayer/meditation showed lower serum levels of autoantibodies specific to pSS and lower disease activity scores. Spiritual engagement was also linked to decreased perceived skin and tracheal dryness, suggesting potential benefits for physical symptoms. These findings suggest that spirituality may play a significant role in modulating immune responses and disease activity in pSS patients. The study underscores the importance of considering spirituality as an integral part of the holistic approach to health and disease, further expanding the understanding of the interconnectedness of biological, psychological, and spiritual dimensions.
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Affiliation(s)
- László V Módis
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Behavioural Sciences, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, 4032, Hungary.
- Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg County Teaching Hospital, Nagykálló Sántha Kálmán Member Hospital, Nagykálló, 4320, Hungary.
| | - Zsófia Aradi
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Clinical Immunology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, 4032, Hungary
| | - Ildikó Fanny Horváth
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Clinical Immunology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, 4032, Hungary
| | - Péter Pikó
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, 4028, Hungary
- National Laboratory for Health Security, Center for Epidemiology and Surveillance, Semmelweis University, Budapest, 1089, Hungary
| | | | - Mátyás Osváth
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Behavioural Sciences, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, 4032, Hungary
| | - Antónia Szántó
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Clinical Immunology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, 4032, Hungary
| | - Antal Bugán
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Behavioural Sciences, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, 4032, Hungary
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Fricker F, Barbotte MV, Pallot G, Radoua N, Sorci G, Heitz M, Brison G, Sales-Vuillemin E, Connat JL. Positive psychological effects of seated acupressure massage are associated with a rise in plasma oxytocin without affecting CGRP levels or circulating IL-6. COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHONEUROENDOCRINOLOGY 2024; 17:100220. [PMID: 38318420 PMCID: PMC10839771 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpnec.2023.100220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Work-related stress is a major public health issue. Given the relationship between acute stress responses and health, finding strategies to deal with the unpleasant symptoms brought on by stress is essential. Massage therapy is a popular stress-reduction technique, but its effectiveness has yet to be shown. In that matter, this study investigates the effects of a 17-minute session of seated Amma massage on young healthy people. Subjective stress perception, anxiety and self-confidence were assessed before and after the massage using the Spielberger State Anxiety Scale (STAI-Y, Spielberger et al., 1983) and the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory (EEAC, Cury et al., 1999), together with cardiovascular parameters. Cortisol, CGRP, IL-6, and oxytocin plasma levels were measured before and after the massage to investigate its possible mode of action. This study enrolled 59 people: 33 receiving the massage, and 26 controls only seated on the massage chair. Interaction Time x Group demonstrates significant differences for all psychological measurements (STAI, EEAC) before and after the Amma massage, showing a beneficial effect of this treatment, in particular on perceived anxiety and self-confidence. No evidence was found of any correlation between cortisol plasma levels and psychological outcomes. No relationship was shown between the decrease of perceived stress and measured CGRP or IL-6 release, but the data demonstrated that heart frequency could be slightly decreased. The oxytocin plasma levels were significantly increased by the massage and could be responsible for the recovery of psychological outcomes. We conclude that seated acupressure Amma massage could be a useful tool to ameliorate quality of life at work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florentine Fricker
- Université de Bourgogne, UFR Sciences Humaines, Cedex, Erasme, 21078, Dijon, France
| | | | - Gaétan Pallot
- Université de Bourgogne, LNC Research Center U1231—Team LipSTIC, 7 Bvd Jeanne d’Arc, 21000, Dijon, France
- Université de Bourgogne, UFR SVTE, Biogéosciences, CNRS UMR 6282, 6 Bvd Gabriel, 21000, Dijon, France
| | - Nouhaila Radoua
- Université de Bourgogne, UFR SVTE, 6 Bvd Gabriel, 21000, Dijon, France
| | - Gabriele Sorci
- Université de Bourgogne, Biogéosciences / UMR 6282, 6 Bvd Gabriel, 21000 Dijon, France
| | - Marie Heitz
- Université de Bourgogne, UFR Sciences Humaines, Cedex, Erasme, 21078, Dijon, France
| | - Grégory Brison
- Université de Bourgogne, Psychologie Sociale et Psychologie du travail, Psy-DREPI (EA-7458), 21000 Dijon, France
- Psychologue Education Nationale, CIO Dijon, 21000, Dijon, France
| | - Edith Sales-Vuillemin
- Université de Bourgogne, Psychologie Sociale et Psychologie du travail, Psy-DREPI (EA-7458), 21000 Dijon, France
| | - Jean-Louis Connat
- Université de Bourgogne, INSERM TCM Research Center U1231—Therapies, Immune Response and Cancers Team, Animal Cell and Molecular Biology, 6 Bvd Gabriel, 21000, Dijon, France
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Lee S, Lee KH, Park KM, Park SJ, Kim WJ, Lee J, Kronbichler A, Smith L, Solmi M, Stubbs B, Koyanagi A, Jacob L, Stickley A, Thompson T, Dragioti E, Oh H, Brunoni AR, Carvalho AF, Radua J, An SK, Namkoong K, Lee E, Shin JI, Fusar-Poli P. Impact of data extraction errors in meta-analyses on the association between depression and peripheral inflammatory biomarkers: an umbrella review. Psychol Med 2023; 53:2017-2030. [PMID: 34749836 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291721003767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accumulating evidence suggests that alterations in inflammatory biomarkers are important in depression. However, previous meta-analyses disagree on these associations, and errors in data extraction may account for these discrepancies. METHODS PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Library were searched from database inception to 14 January 2020. Meta-analyses of observational studies examining the association between depression and levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin 1-β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and C-reactive protein (CRP) were eligible. Errors were classified as follows: incorrect sample sizes, incorrectly used standard deviation, incorrect participant inclusion, calculation error, or analysis with insufficient data. We determined their impact on the results after correction thereof. RESULTS Errors were noted in 14 of the 15 meta-analyses included. Across 521 primary studies, 118 (22.6%) showed the following errors: incorrect sample sizes (20 studies, 16.9%), incorrect use of standard deviation (35 studies, 29.7%), incorrect participant inclusion (7 studies, 5.9%), calculation errors (33 studies, 28.0%), and analysis with insufficient data (23 studies, 19.5%). After correcting these errors, 11 (29.7%) out of 37 pooled effect sizes changed by a magnitude of more than 0.1, ranging from 0.11 to 1.15. The updated meta-analyses showed that elevated levels of TNF- α, IL-6, CRP, but not IL-1β, are associated with depression. CONCLUSIONS These findings show that data extraction errors in meta-analyses can impact findings. Efforts to reduce such errors are important in studies of the association between depression and peripheral inflammatory biomarkers, for which high heterogeneity and conflicting results have been continuously reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- San Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Yongin Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yongin, Republic of Korea
| | - Keum Hwa Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Mee Park
- Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Yongin Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yongin, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Jong Park
- Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Jae Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinhee Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Lee Smith
- The Cambridge Centre for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge CB1 1PT, UK
| | - Marco Solmi
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Mental Health, The Ottawa Hospital, Ontario, Canada
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (OHRI) Clinical Epidemiology Program, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-Detection (EPIC) Lab, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Brendon Stubbs
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AF, UK
- Physiotherapy Department, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London SE5 8AZ, UK
| | - Ai Koyanagi
- Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu/CIBERSAM, Universitat de Barcelona, Fundació Sant Joan de Déu, Sant Boi de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- ICREA, Pg. Lluis Companys 23, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Louis Jacob
- Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu/CIBERSAM, Universitat de Barcelona, Fundació Sant Joan de Déu, Sant Boi de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France
| | - Andrew Stickley
- Stockholm Center for Health and Social Change (SCOHOST), Södertörn University, Huddinge 141 89, Sweden
| | - Trevor Thompson
- Department of Psychology, University of Greenwich, London SE109LS, UK
| | - Elena Dragioti
- Pain and Rehabilitation Centre, and Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-581 85 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Hans Oh
- School of Social Work, University of Southern California, CA, USA
| | - Andre R Brunoni
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry, Service of Interdisciplinary Neuromodulation, Laboratory of Neurosciences (LIM-27) and National Institute of Biomarkers in Neuropsychiatry (INBioN), Institute of Psychiatry, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Departamento de Clínica Médica, Hospital Universitario, Faculdade de Medicina da USP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Andre F Carvalho
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Joaquim Radua
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-Detection (EPIC) Lab, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Imaging of Mood- and Anxiety-Related Disorders (IMARD) Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), CIBERSAM, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Suk Kyoon An
- Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kee Namkoong
- Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Il Shin
- Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Paolo Fusar-Poli
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-Detection (EPIC) Lab, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK
- OASIS service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Department of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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Schacht S, O'Connor B, Kirschner A, Steelman K, Rosmarin DH, Rubinstein J. Review of the Cardiovascular Implications of the Social and Religious Practices Associated with Donning Phylacteries. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2023; 62:287-299. [PMID: 35028811 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-021-01478-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
We previously published a manuscript suggesting that use of phylacteries, ritual straps worn during Jewish prayer services, affects cardiovascular and inflammatory function (Owens et al., Am J Physiol-Heart Circ Physiol, 315(6):H1748-H1758, 2018). Observed physiologic changes were associated with improved cardiac outcomes, though a direct link between phylactery use and improved cardiovascular outcomes is difficult to prove as there are a number of associated religious and spiritual practices that may confound the observed effects. In this review, we assess the scientific literature regarding religious and spiritual practices associated with phylactery in order to better understand the cardiovascular implications of the practice of donning phylacteries. We focus on key aspects traditionally associated with donning phylacteries including gathering in groups, meditation and prayer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney Schacht
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Health and Disease, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 231 Albert Sabin Way, ML0586, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA
| | - Brian O'Connor
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Health and Disease, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 231 Albert Sabin Way, ML0586, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA
| | - Akiva Kirschner
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Health and Disease, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 231 Albert Sabin Way, ML0586, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA
| | - Katie Steelman
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Health and Disease, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 231 Albert Sabin Way, ML0586, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA
| | | | - Jack Rubinstein
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Health and Disease, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 231 Albert Sabin Way, ML0586, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA.
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Nawrat-Szołtysik A, Sieradzka M, Nowacka-Chmielewska M, Piejko L, Duda J, Brachman A, Polak A. Effect of Whole-Body Vibration Training on Selected Intrinsic Risk Factors in Women Aged 60+ at Fall Risk: A Randomized Controlled Trial. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph192417066. [PMID: 36554961 PMCID: PMC9779491 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192417066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The aim of the study was to determine whether Whole Body Vibration Training (WBVT) affects intrinsic risk factors for falls in women aged 60+ at fall risk. DESIGN Randomized controlled clinical trial. Blinding was applied to the persons in charge of evaluating the intervention's clinical results and statistical analysis. METHODS Forty-two women over 60 years old were randomly assigned to an experimental group (EG-12-week WBVT; n = 22) and a control group (CG-no additional physical activities; n = 20). Fear of falling was measured by the FES-I questionnaire, gait and dynamic balance using the Time-Up and Go test (TUG), aerobic endurance with the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), and the functional strength of the lower body muscles with the 30-s Chair Stand Test (30SCST) at baseline and post-intervention. Additionally assayed were participants' blood concentrations of interleukin-6 (IL-6). RESULTS The 12-week WBVT improves gait and balance (TUG, p = 0.009), exercise tolerance (6MWT, p = 0.001), and functional strength (30SCST; p = 0.027) but does not reduce the intensity of fear of falling (FES-I, p = 0.655) and the IL-6 serum concentration (p = 0.377). CONCLUSIONS WBVT affects selected fall risk factors in women aged 60+ at fall risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Nawrat-Szołtysik
- Institute of Physiotherapy and Health Sciences, Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, 40-065 Katowice, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-793-481-081
| | - Marta Sieradzka
- Doctoral School, Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, 40-065 Katowice, Poland
| | - Marta Nowacka-Chmielewska
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Physiotherapy and Health Sciences, Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, 40-065 Katowice, Poland
| | - Laura Piejko
- Institute of Physiotherapy and Health Sciences, Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, 40-065 Katowice, Poland
| | - Julia Duda
- Doctoral School, Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, 40-065 Katowice, Poland
| | - Anna Brachman
- Institute of Sport Sciences, Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, 40-065 Katowice, Poland
| | - Anna Polak
- Institute of Physiotherapy and Health Sciences, Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, 40-065 Katowice, Poland
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Chu HY, Chan HS. Loneliness and Social Support among the Middle-Aged and Elderly People with Visual Impairment. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14600. [PMID: 36361480 PMCID: PMC9655996 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Loneliness is associated with depression, sleep disturbance, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, and it is a global public health problem. Since physical and mental health have a great impact on loneliness, middle-aged and elderly people who are blind or visually impaired may be more affected by loneliness. Previous research has confirmed that effective social support can enhance physical and mental health and alleviate the negative effects of life stress. Therefore, in this study, we applied a cross-sectional design where data were collected using questionnaires completed in person, by phone, or online for a total of 456 middle-aged and elderly people with visual impairment. We found that the enrolled participants who were unemployed, lacked a stable source of income, lived alone, or were unable to move independently were prone to experiencing high levels of loneliness and low social support, which highlights the necessity of interventions such as counseling to alleviate the sense of loneliness in such groups. During the COVID-19 pandemic, social support measures to reduce the sense of loneliness should be highly encouraged to ensure that middle-aged and elderly people with visual impairment can continue to live independently, and social support seems to be an important factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Ying Chu
- Department of Living Services Industry, Tainan University of Technology, Tainan City 710, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Shan Chan
- Department of Applied Cosmetology, National Tainan Junior College of Nursing, Tainan City 700, Taiwan
- Department of Special Education, National Tainan University, Tainan City 710, Taiwan
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11
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Chung JH, Eun Y, Ock SM, Kim BK, Kim TH, Kim D, Park SJ, Im MK, Kim SH. Regional Brain Volume Changes in Catholic Nuns: A Cross-Sectional Study Using Deep Learning-Based Brain MRI Segmentation. Psychiatry Investig 2022; 19:754-762. [PMID: 36202111 PMCID: PMC9536884 DOI: 10.30773/pi.2022.0165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Religious behaviors are considered as complex brain-based phenomena that may be associated with structural brain change. To identify the pattern of regional brain volume change in nuns, we investigated structural alterations in the brains of nuns using a fast processing automated segmentation method based on deep learning algorithms. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of the catholic sisters between the ages of 31 and 80 who are members of the charity of St. Vincent de Paul of Korea. A total of 193 asymptomatic subjects (86 nuns and 107 control subjects) received comprehensive health screening and underwent brain MRI scans. We compared cortical and sub-cortical volume between groups across multiple locations using our in-house U-Net++ deep learning-based automatic segmentation tool. RESULTS Compared to the control group, the nun group displayed increased gray matter volume in the right lingual cortex, left isthmus-cingulate, posterior-cingulate, rostral-middle-frontal, superior-frontal, supramarginal, temporal-pole cortices, and bilateral pars-triangularis cortices after correction for multiple comparisons. On the other hand, the nun group showed reduced gray matter volume in the temporal and parietal regions relative to healthy controls. CONCLUSION Our study suggests that spiritual practice may affect brain structure, especially in several frontal regions involved in a higher level of insight function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju-Hye Chung
- Department of Family Medicine, Yeouido St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngmi Eun
- Department of Family Medicine, Yeouido St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Myeong Ock
- Department of Family Medicine, Yeouido St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo-Kyung Kim
- Department of Family Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Hong Kim
- Department of Palliative Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Se Jin Park
- Department of Family Medicine, Yeouido St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Kyun Im
- Department of Fundamental Theology, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Se-Hong Kim
- Department of Family Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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12
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Levin J. Toward a translational epidemiology of religion: challenges and applications. Ann Epidemiol 2022; 75:25-31. [PMID: 36058543 DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2022.08.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
This paper explores the concept of translational epidemiology in the context of epidemiologic studies of religious determinants of morbidity and mortality. Despite a research literature of, by now, thousands of published studies, many in top-tier medical and public health journals, some resistance remains to full acceptance of this work. A principal reason may be the failure of investigators to make the case for real-world applications of epidemiologic findings on religious risk or protection for subsequent personal or population health, in keeping with the definition of translational epidemiology. To remedy this, a case is made for a translational epidemiology of religion. Three types of translation are proposed. The first two recall the standard definition of translational medicine as "from bench to bedside," in this instance two types of bedside encounters, pastoral and clinical. The third application is to public health practice, involving multiple public health professions and specialties. As with other substantive topics within psychosocial epidemiology, research on population-health outcomes of religious exposures provides information that can be applied to development of health promotion and disease prevention programs and formulation of health policy. But this can happen only if investigators give more attention to enumerating potential uses of their findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff Levin
- Institute for Studies of Religion and Medical Humanities Program, Baylor University, Waco, TX; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC.
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13
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GİREYHAN AG. The Moderator Role of Spirituality on the Relationship between Fear of COVID-19 and Psychological Well-Being. SPIRITUAL PSYCHOLOGY AND COUNSELING 2022. [DOI: 10.37898/spc.2022.7.2.164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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14
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McDonnell-Naughton M, Gaffney L, Fagan A. Spirituality and Caring for the Older Person: A Discussion Paper. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2020; 59:2775-2793. [PMID: 32458187 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-020-01027-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Holistic healthcare to the older person is important. Spirituality is considered to be the very essence of being and for some is what motivates and guides us to live a meaningful existence. Nurses caring for the older person need support in responding to their spiritual needs in order to ensure that they are appropriately and successfully met. The aim of this paper is to explore these needs and highlight some evidence indicating how this care can be implemented and therefore ultimately influence nursing practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary McDonnell-Naughton
- Department of Nursing and Healthcare, Athlone Institute of Technology, Dublin Road, Athlone, Ireland.
| | - Lorraine Gaffney
- Department of Nursing and Healthcare, Athlone Institute of Technology, Dublin Road, Athlone, Ireland
| | - Alison Fagan
- Department of Nursing and Healthcare, Athlone Institute of Technology, Dublin Road, Athlone, Ireland
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15
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Levin J. The Faith Community and the SARS-CoV-2 Outbreak: Part of the Problem or Part of the Solution? JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2020; 59:2215-2228. [PMID: 32488827 PMCID: PMC7265665 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-020-01048-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
The current outbreak of the SARS-CoV-2 virus is a critical moment in time for institutional religion in the USA and throughout the world. Individual clergy and congregations, across faith traditions, have been sources of misinformation and disinformation, promoting messages and actions that engender fear, animosity toward others, and unnecessary risk-taking. But there is a positive role for religion and faith-based institutions here, and many examples of leaders and organizations stepping up to contribute to the collective recovery. Personal faith and spirituality may be a source of host resistance and resilience. Religiously sponsored medical care institutions are vital to health care response efforts. Ministries and faith-based organizations are source of religious health assets that can help to meet community-wide needs. There is a pastoral role for clergy and laypeople who are instrumental in providing comfort and strength to the suffering and fearful in our midst. The outbreak presents an ethical challenge to all of us to step outside of our own preoccupations and to be present and of service for others. This includes having the courage to represent the highest values of our faith in speaking out against religiously motivated foolishness and hatred and in calling for political and public health leaders to be truthful and transparent in their messages to us.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff Levin
- Institute for Studies of Religion, Baylor University, One Bear Place # 97236, Waco, TX, 76798, USA.
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16
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Koenig HG. Maintaining Health and Well-Being by Putting Faith into Action During the COVID-19 Pandemic. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2020; 59:2205-2214. [PMID: 32409989 PMCID: PMC7224109 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-020-01035-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Anxiety and fear adversely affect the physiological systems that protect individuals from infection. This article comments on the role that religious faith and practice can play in helping individuals remain free from infection by the coronavirus and in helping to moderate the effects of infection if that should occur. The author provides six recommendations to help individuals maintain spiritual, mental, and physical resilience during these anxious times of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harold G Koenig
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, and Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Box 3400, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
- Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
- Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, People's Republic of China.
- Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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17
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Shattuck EC, Muehlenbein MP. Religiosity/Spirituality and Physiological Markers of Health. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2020; 59:1035-1054. [PMID: 29978269 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-018-0663-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
The long-standing interest in the effects of religiosity and spirituality (R/S) on health outcomes has given rise to a large and diverse literature. We conducted a meta-analysis on research involving R/S and physiological markers of health to elucidate both the scope and mechanism(s) of this phenomenon. A combined analysis found a significant, but small, beneficial effect. Subgroup analyses found that some measures of both extrinsic and intrinsic religiosity were significantly associated with health. Several outcome measures, including blood pressure, C-reactive protein, and cardiovascular health markers, were significantly associated with R/S. Our findings suggest that R/S benefits health, perhaps through minimizing the disruptive effects of stress/depression on inflammation. We hope that researchers can use these results to guide efforts aimed at elucidating the true mechanism(s) linking religious/spiritual beliefs and physical health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric C Shattuck
- Department of Anthropology, Baylor University, One Bear Place 97173, Waco, TX, 76798, USA
- Institute for Health Disparities Research, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, USA
| | - Michael P Muehlenbein
- Department of Anthropology, Baylor University, One Bear Place 97173, Waco, TX, 76798, USA.
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18
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Suh H, Hill TD, Koenig HG. Religious Attendance and Biological Risk: A National Longitudinal Study of Older Adults. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2019; 58:1188-1202. [PMID: 30334184 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-018-0721-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Although several studies suggest that religious involvement is associated with healthier biological functioning in later life, most of this work is cross-sectional. We extend previous research by employing a longitudinal design. Our analysis of Health and Retirement Study (2006/2010) data suggests that older adults who attended religious services weekly or more in 2006 tend to exhibit fewer high-risk biomarkers in 2010 and greater reductions in allostatic load over the 4-year study period than respondents who attended yearly or not at all. These patterns persisted with adjustments for baseline allostatic load and a range of background variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyungjun Suh
- School of Sociology, The University of Arizona, Social Sciences Building, Room 400, 1145 E. South Campus Drive, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA
| | - Terrence D Hill
- School of Sociology, The University of Arizona, Social Sciences Building, Room 400, 1145 E. South Campus Drive, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA.
| | - Harold G Koenig
- Departments of Psychiatry and Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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19
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Nkinda L, Patel K, Njuguna B, Ngangali JP, Memiah P, Bwire GM, Majigo MV, Mizinduko M, Pastakia SD, Lyamuya E. C - reactive protein and interleukin - 6 levels among human immunodeficiency virus -infected patients with dysglycemia in Tanzania. BMC Endocr Disord 2019; 19:77. [PMID: 31331321 PMCID: PMC6647154 DOI: 10.1186/s12902-019-0407-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic inflammation has been associated with dysglycemia among people living with HIV (PLHIV). There is however, limited data regarding this phenomenon in sub-Sahara Africa (SSA). Therefore we assessed the levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and Interleukin 6 (IL-6) on a cohort of PLHIV and its associations with dysglycemia in Tanzania. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study at the Infectious Disease Clinic (IDC) in Tanzania from March to May 2018. Purposive sampling was used to identify participants who had an undetectable viral load, were on 1st line anti-retroviral therapy (ART) and had an overnight fast. The WHO stepwise approach for non-communicable disease (NCD) surveillance was used to collect data. Fasting blood glucose and blood glucose after 75 g oral glucose load was measured, and Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to test for inflammatory markers (IL-6 and CRP). Associations were explored using the Chi square test and binary logistic regression was performed to estimate the odds ratios. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS A total of 240 participants were enrolled. Forty two percent were overweight/obese (> 25 kg/m2), 89% had a high waist to height ratio. The median ART duration was 8(5-10) years. The prevalence of dysglycemia among our cohort of PLHIV was 32%. High CRP was associated with a 2.05 increased odds of having dysglycemia OR 2.05 (1.15-3.65) (p = 0.01). Taking stavudine was associated with a 1.99 odds of having dysglycemia OR 1.99 (1.04-3.82) (p = 0.03).We did not find a significant association between IL-6 and dysglycemia. CONCLUSION High CRP and taking stavudine were significantly associated with dysglycemia among PLHIV with undetectable viral load.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilian Nkinda
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O box 65001, Dares Salaam, Tanzania
- Department of Immunology, Moi University, P.O. Box 4606-30100, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Kirtika Patel
- Department of Immunology, Moi University, P.O. Box 4606-30100, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Benson Njuguna
- Department of Pharmacy and Department of Cardiology, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, P.O Box 3-30100, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Jean Pierre Ngangali
- Department of Immunology, Moi University, P.O. Box 4606-30100, Eldoret, Kenya
- Rwanda National Reference Laboratory, P.O Box 4668, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Peter Memiah
- Department of Public Health, University of West Florida, 11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, USA
| | - George M. Bwire
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O box 65001, Dares Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Mtebe V. Majigo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O box 65001, Dares Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Mucho Mizinduko
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O Box 65001, Dares Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Sonak D. Pastakia
- Purdue College of Pharmacy, Purdue Kenya Partnership, P.O Box 5760, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Eligius Lyamuya
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O box 65001, Dares Salaam, Tanzania
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20
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Escher C, Gomez R, Paulraj S, Ma F, Spies-Upton S, Cummings C, Brown LM, Thomas Tormala T, Goldblum P. Relations of religion with depression and loneliness in older sexual and gender minority adults. Clin Gerontol 2019; 42:150-161. [PMID: 30183539 DOI: 10.1080/07317115.2018.1514341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES High levels of religious involvement have been associated with positive mental health outcomes in older adults. This study investigated whether the effects of religion on healthy aging could generalize to older LGBTQ adults. METHODS This study examined religious affiliation in childhood versus at present, as well as the relationships of outness to religious community and religious engagement with depression and loneliness in 102 lesbian, gay, and bisexual cisgender, transgender, and questioning adults (LGBTQ) over the age of 55. As part of a larger study, participants completed several questions and measures including: one outness to religious community item, 4 religious engagement questions, the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale, and the 8-item UCLA Loneliness Scale. RESULTS Many older LGBTQ adults reported changes in religious affiliation from childhood to adulthood. Greater levels of outness to religious communities and lower religious engagement were related to lower levels of depression and loneliness. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that outness to religious communities may be beneficial to the mental health of older LGBTQ adults. Higher levels of distress may lead to higher levels of religious engagement. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Religion, especially those that are supportive of sexual minorities, may help to improve the well-being of older LGBTQ adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Escher
- a Pacific Graduate School of Psychology , Palo Alto University , Palo Alto , California , USA
| | - Rowena Gomez
- a Pacific Graduate School of Psychology , Palo Alto University , Palo Alto , California , USA
| | - Selvi Paulraj
- a Pacific Graduate School of Psychology , Palo Alto University , Palo Alto , California , USA
| | - Flora Ma
- a Pacific Graduate School of Psychology , Palo Alto University , Palo Alto , California , USA
| | - Stephanie Spies-Upton
- a Pacific Graduate School of Psychology , Palo Alto University , Palo Alto , California , USA
| | - Carlton Cummings
- a Pacific Graduate School of Psychology , Palo Alto University , Palo Alto , California , USA
| | - Lisa M Brown
- a Pacific Graduate School of Psychology , Palo Alto University , Palo Alto , California , USA
| | - Teceta Thomas Tormala
- a Pacific Graduate School of Psychology , Palo Alto University , Palo Alto , California , USA
| | - Peter Goldblum
- a Pacific Graduate School of Psychology , Palo Alto University , Palo Alto , California , USA
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21
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Lucchetti G, Vitorino LM, Nasri F, Lucchetti ALG. Impact of Religion and Spirituality in Older Persons. SPIRITUALITY, RELIGIOUSNESS AND HEALTH 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-21221-6_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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22
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Mosqueiro BP, Fleck MP, da Rocha NS. Increased Levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Are Associated With High Intrinsic Religiosity Among Depressed Inpatients. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:671. [PMID: 31572245 PMCID: PMC6753839 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Recognition of the importance of religion and spirituality in psychiatry is increasing, and several studies have shown a predominantly inverse relationship between religiosity and depression. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a widely studied brain neurotrophin responsible for synaptic plasticity, dendritic and neuronal fiber growth, and neuronal survival. The objective of the present study was to evaluate BDNF levels across high and low intrinsic religiosity (IR) in depressed inpatients. Serum BDNF levels were evaluated from 101 depressed inpatients at hospital admission and 91 inpatients at discharge. Religiosity was assessed using a validated version of the Duke University Religion Index. High IR patients had significantly higher serum BDNF at discharge than do low IR (52.0 vs. 41.3 ng/mL, P = 0.02), with a Cohen's d effect size difference of 0.56. High IR patients had a statistically significant increase in BDNF levels from admission to discharge (43.6 ± 22.4 vs. 53.8 ± 20.6 ng/mL, -1.950 (paired t-statistic), P = 0.05). The relationship between IR and BDNF levels (F = 6.199, P = 0.00) was controlled for the effects of depressive symptoms ( β = 2.73, P = 0.00) and psychiatric treatments, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (β = 0.17, P = 0.08), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) ( β = -0.23, P = 0.02), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) ( β = -0.17, P = 0.10), lithium ( β = 0.29, P = 0.00), anticonvulsants ( β = 0.22, P = 0.03), antipsychotics ( β = -0.05, P = 0.61), and electroconvulsive therapy ( β = 0.00, P = 0.98). The current findings suggest a potential pathway to help understand the protective effect of religiosity in depressive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Paz Mosqueiro
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Psiquiatria e Ciências do Comportamento, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Marcelo P Fleck
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Psiquiatria e Ciências do Comportamento, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Neusa Sica da Rocha
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Psiquiatria e Ciências do Comportamento, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Interventions and Innovations for Quality of Life (I-QOL), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
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Page RL, Peltzer JN, Burdette AM, Hill TD. Religiosity and Health: A Holistic Biopsychosocial Perspective. J Holist Nurs 2018; 38:89-101. [PMID: 29957093 DOI: 10.1177/0898010118783502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The resurgence of interest in the influence of religion and spirituality on health is examined within the context of the holistic paradigm and historical connection between nursing and spirituality. While nursing and spirituality often intersect with end-of-life considerations, this article presents findings from studies that demonstrate that religious involvement favors health and longevity across the life course. Examples include protective associations with stress, depression, self-rated health, and infant birth weight. Theoretical and empirical explanations for this relationship are offered, such as social and psychological resources and healthy behaviors. The effects of religion on biological functioning, including allostatic load and telomere length, are also discussed, although this area is understudied. Considerations for the "dark-side" of religious involvement are also offered. Suggestions for nurses wishing to protect and promote the health of their patients using a holistic approach include expanding knowledge of research on religion and health and advocating for patients' spiritual needs by conducting a comprehensive spiritual assessment in primary, secondary, and tertiary clinical settings.
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24
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Greenfield RH. Heart Failure. Integr Med (Encinitas) 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-35868-2.00025-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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25
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The Mutant Says in His Heart, “There Is No God”: the Rejection of Collective Religiosity Centred Around the Worship of Moral Gods Is Associated with High Mutational Load. EVOLUTIONARY PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s40806-017-0133-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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26
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Pajević I, Sinanović O, Hasanović M. Association of Islamic Prayer with Psychological Stability in Bosnian War Veterans. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2017; 56:2317-2329. [PMID: 28601928 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-017-0431-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
To compare the outcomes among war veterans who pray/do not pray and who were not suffering mental disorders after the Bosnia-Herzegovina war (1992-95). The sample consists of 100 healthy Bosnian war veterans divided in two equal groups-one, a highly religious group inside which were individuals who perform five obligatory prayers every day, and another group of individuals who do not practice any daily prayer. We used Minnesota Multiphase Personal Inventory (MMPI), Profile Index of Emotions (PIE) and Life Style Questionnaire (LSQ). War veterans who prayed had significantly higher levels for: incorporation, self-protection, and for reactive formation; but significantly lower levels for regression, compensation, transfer, no-controlling, oppositional and aggressiveness than their peers who did not pray. Practicing religion (regular performing daily prayers) is associated with reduction of tendencies towards the tendency for risk, impulsiveness, and aggression. It is also associated with successful overcoming of emotional conflicts in war veterans who practiced religion than their peers who did not practice religion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izet Pajević
- Department for Psychiatry, University Clinical Centre, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- School of Medicine, University of Tuzla, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Osman Sinanović
- Department for Neurology, University Clinical Centre, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- School of Medicine, University of Tuzla, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Mevludin Hasanović
- Department for Psychiatry, University Clinical Centre, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- School of Medicine, University of Tuzla, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
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Saquib N, Saquib J, Alhadlag A, Albakour MA, Aljumah B, Sughayyir M, Alhomidan Z, Alminderej O, Aljaser M, Al-Dhlawiy AM, Al-Mazrou A. Health benefits of Quran memorization for older men. SAGE Open Med 2017; 5:2050312117740990. [PMID: 29163949 PMCID: PMC5686875 DOI: 10.1177/2050312117740990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To examine the association between Quran memorization and health among older men. Methods This cross-sectional study included older Saudi men (age ≥ 55 years) from Buraidah, Al-Qassim. The neighborhoods were selected randomly (20 out of 96); eligible men from the mosques were recruited. Demographics, lifestyle, and depression were assessed with standardized questionnaires; height, weight, blood pressure, and random blood glucose (glucometer) were measured with standard protocol. Results The mean and standard deviation for age, body mass index, and Quran memorization were 63 years (7.5), 28.9 kg/m2 (4.8), and 4.3 sections (6.9). Prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, and depression were 71%, 29%, and 22%, respectively. Those who memorized at least 10 sections of Quran were 64%, 71%, and 81% less likely to have hypertension, diabetes, and depression compared to those who memorized less than 0.5 sections, after controlling for covariates. Conclusion There was a strong linear association between Quran memorization and hypertension, diabetes, and depression indicating that those who had memorized a larger portion of the Quran were less likely to have one of these chronic diseases. Future studies should explore the potential health benefits of Quran memorization and the underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazmus Saquib
- College of Medicine, Sulaiman Al-Rajhi Colleges, Al Bukayriyah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Juliann Saquib
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | - Bader Aljumah
- College of Medicine, Sulaiman Al-Rajhi Colleges, Al Bukayriyah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Sughayyir
- College of Medicine, Sulaiman Al-Rajhi Colleges, Al Bukayriyah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ziad Alhomidan
- College of Medicine, Sulaiman Al-Rajhi Colleges, Al Bukayriyah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Omar Alminderej
- College of Medicine, Sulaiman Al-Rajhi Colleges, Al Bukayriyah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Aljaser
- College of Medicine, Sulaiman Al-Rajhi Colleges, Al Bukayriyah, Saudi Arabia
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although several studies suggest that religious involvement tends to favor healthy biological functioning, most of this work has been conducted in the United States. This study explores the association between religious participation and biological functioning in Mexico. METHOD The data are drawn from two waves of the Mexican Health and Aging Study (2003-2012) to assess continuous and categorical biomarker specifications. RESULTS Across specifications, religious participation in 2003 is associated with lower levels of waist-to-hip ratio, total cholesterol, pulse rate, and overall allostatic load in 2012. Respondents who increased their participation over the study period also exhibit a concurrent reduction in pulse rate. Depending on the specification, participation is also associated with lower levels of diastolic blood pressure and C-reactive protein. Participation is generally unrelated to body mass index, glycosylated hemoglobin, and systolic blood pressure. DISCUSSION Our results confirm that religious participation is associated with healthier biological functioning in Mexico.
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Shields GS, Moons WG, Slavich GM. Inflammation, Self-Regulation, and Health: An Immunologic Model of Self-Regulatory Failure. PERSPECTIVES ON PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE 2017; 12:588-612. [PMID: 28679069 DOI: 10.1177/1745691616689091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Self-regulation is a fundamental human process that refers to multiple complex methods by which individuals pursue goals in the face of distractions. Whereas superior self-regulation predicts better academic achievement, relationship quality, financial and career success, and lifespan health, poor self-regulation increases a person's risk for negative outcomes in each of these domains and can ultimately presage early mortality. Given its centrality to understanding the human condition, a large body of research has examined cognitive, emotional, and behavioral aspects of self-regulation. In contrast, relatively little attention has been paid to specific biologic processes that may underlie self-regulation. We address this latter issue in the present review by examining the growing body of research showing that components of the immune system involved in inflammation can alter neural, cognitive, and motivational processes that lead to impaired self-regulation and poor health. Based on these findings, we propose an integrated, multilevel model that describes how inflammation may cause widespread biobehavioral alterations that promote self-regulatory failure. This immunologic model of self-regulatory failure has implications for understanding how biological and behavioral factors interact to influence self-regulation. The model also suggests new ways of reducing disease risk and enhancing human potential by targeting inflammatory processes that affect self-regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - George M Slavich
- 3 Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology and Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles
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Santos PR, Capote Júnior JRFG, Cavalcante Filho JRM, Ferreira TP, Dos Santos Filho JNG, da Silva Oliveira S. Religious coping methods predict depression and quality of life among end-stage renal disease patients undergoing hemodialysis: a cross-sectional study. BMC Nephrol 2017. [PMID: 28623903 PMCID: PMC5474022 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-017-0619-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poor quality of life (QOL) and a high prevalence of depression have been identified among end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD). We aimed to evaluate the associations between religious/spiritual (R/S) coping methods and both QOL and depression among ESRD patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD). METHODS The sample included 161 ESRD patients over 18 years of age who had been undergoing HD for more than 3 months. R/S coping methods were assessed using the Religious Coping Questionnaire (RCOPE). The RCOPE generates scores (from 1 to 5) for positive and negative R/S coping methods. The higher the score, the more frequent the use of that coping method. Depression was evaluated using the 20-item version of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). Scores on the CES-D range from 0 to 60. A cutoff of 18 was used to define depression. QOL was evaluated using the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36); this survey was used to generate scores for the eight dimensions of QOL, which can vary from 0 (worst) to 100 (best). RESULTS We identified a depression prevalence of 27.3%. Positive R/S coping scores were higher among non-depressed than depressed patients (2.98 vs. 2.77; p = 0.037). Positive R/S coping scores were negatively correlated with depression scores (r = -0.200; p = 0.012) and were an independent protective factor for depression (OR = 0.13; CI 95% = 0.02-0.91; p = 0.039). Regarding QOL, a positive correlation was identified between positive R/S coping scores and scores related to general health (r = 0.171; p = 0.030) and vitality (r = 0.183; p = 0.019), and an inverse correlation was identified between negative R/S coping scores and scores in the social functioning (r = -0.191; p = 0.015) and mental health (r = -0.214; p = 0.006) dimensions. In addition, positive R/S coping scores were an independent predictor of higher scores in the bodily pain (β = 14.401; p = 0.048) and vitality (β = 12.580; p = 0.022) dimensions. In contrast, negative R/S coping scores independently predicted lower social functioning scores (β = -21.158; p = 0.017). CONCLUSIONS Our results provide further evidence suggesting that R/S coping methods may be associated with QOL and depression among HD patients. In our opinion, the use of religious resources should be encouraged among HD patients, and psycho-spiritual interventions should be attempted to target religious struggles (negative R/S coping) in patients undergoing HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulo Roberto Santos
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Sobral Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Brazil, Rua Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CEP 62.042-280, Brazil. .,Sobral Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Brazil, Rua Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CEP 62.042-280, Brazil. .,, Rua Tenente Amauri Pio, 380 apt. 900, Fortaleza, CE, CEP 60.160-090, Brazil.
| | - José Roberto Frota Gomes Capote Júnior
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Sobral Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Brazil, Rua Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CEP 62.042-280, Brazil
| | | | - Ticianne Pinto Ferreira
- Sobral Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Brazil, Rua Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CEP 62.042-280, Brazil
| | | | - Stênio da Silva Oliveira
- Sobral Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Brazil, Rua Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CEP 62.042-280, Brazil
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Cardenas V, Mausbach BT, Sommerfeld D, Jimenez D, von Känel R, Ho JS, Garcia P, Aarons G. Depression is Associated with Increased Risk for Metabolic Syndrome in Latinos with Type 2 Diabetes. Am J Geriatr Psychiatry 2017; 25:646-653. [PMID: 28341138 PMCID: PMC5564669 DOI: 10.1016/j.jagp.2017.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2016] [Revised: 01/25/2017] [Accepted: 02/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Latino adults are 66% more likely to have diabetes relative to non-Latino white adults. Prior research identifies depression as a significant risk factor for metabolic syndrome (MetS), but research examining this among Latinos is lacking. This study sought to examine the links between depression and MetS and clinically significant elevations in cardiovascular disease risk markers of MetS in a sample of community-dwelling older Latinos with type 2 diabetes. METHODS Participants were 332 community-dwelling older (≥60 years) Latinos with type 2 diabetes who completed the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire and received a health checkup assessing body mass index (BMI), triglyceride and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels, and blood pressure. Logistic regression analysis compared MetS rates of those meeting criteria for depression with those who did not. Secondary analyses examined the associations between depression and individual MetS components. All analyses controlled for demographic (e.g., income, age) and other potential MetS risk factors (e.g., smoking status, physical activity, alcohol level consumption). RESULTS Depression was significantly associated with an increased risk of MetS (OR: 5.79; 95% CI: 1.32-25.42) and clinically significant elevations in triglycerides (OR: 2.71; 95% CI: 1.15-6.42) and reduced (HDL) cholesterol (OR: 2.46; 95% CI: 1.11-5.45). A significant association was not observed between depression and either BMI or hypertension. CONCLUSION Depression is significantly linked to MetS, and most notably dyslipidemia, in older Latinos with diabetes. Causation, however, cannot be inferred from these analyses given the cross-sectional nature of the study. Future research should prospectively examine the directionality of this effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Cardenas
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Brent T. Mausbach
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - David Sommerfeld
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Daniel Jimenez
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL
| | | | - Jennifer S. Ho
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Piedad Garcia
- County of San Diego, Health and Human Services Agency, Behavioral Health Services, San Diego, CA
| | - Greg Aarons
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
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Hill TD, Vaghela P, Ellison CG, Rote S. Processes Linking Religious Involvement and Telomere Length. BIODEMOGRAPHY AND SOCIAL BIOLOGY 2017; 63:167-188. [PMID: 28521619 DOI: 10.1080/19485565.2017.1311204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Although numerous studies suggest that religious involvement is associated with better health and longer life expectancies, it is unclear whether these general patterns extend to cellular aging. The mechanisms linking indicators of religious involvement with indicators of cellular aging are also undefined. We employed longitudinal data from the 2004 and 2008 Health and Retirement Study, a national probability sample of Americans aged 50 and older, to test whether average telomere length varied according to level of religious attendance. We also tested several potential mechanisms. Our results showed that respondents who attended religious services more frequently in 2004 also exhibited fewer stressful events, lower rates of smoking, fewer symptoms of depression, and lower levels of C-reactive protein in 2008. Respondents who increased their level of attendance from 2004 to 2008 also exhibited lower rates of smoking in 2008. Although religious attendance was not directly associated with telomere length, our mediation analyses revealed significant indirect effects through depression and smoking, but not stressful events or C-reactive protein. We conclude that religious attendance may promote telomere length indirectly by reducing symptoms of depression and the risk of smoking. There was no evidence to support stressful events or C-reactive protein as mechanisms of religious attendance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terrence D Hill
- a School of Sociology , The University of Arizona , Tucson , Arizona , USA
| | - Preeti Vaghela
- b Department of Sociology , Florida State University , Tallahassee , Florida , USA
| | - Christopher G Ellison
- c Department of Sociology , University of Texas at San Antonio , San Antonio , Texas , USA
| | - Sunshine Rote
- d Kent School of Social Work , University of Louisville , Louisville , Kentucky , USA
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Chida Y, Schrempft S, Steptoe A. A Novel Religious/Spiritual Group Psychotherapy Reduces Depressive Symptoms in a Randomized Clinical Trial. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2016; 55:1495-506. [PMID: 26320001 PMCID: PMC4956713 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-015-0113-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
This randomized controlled trial aimed to examine the effect of the Happy Science doctrine-based group psychotherapy on depressive symptoms in 118 Japanese mental disorder outpatients. The treatment group (n = 58) took part in five 90-min sessions at one-week intervals, while the control group (n = 60) received standard care including medication. Depressive symptoms were assessed before the intervention, 5 weeks after the intervention, and at 3-month follow-up. Compared to the control group, the treatment group showed a significant reduction in depressive symptoms both at post-intervention and at 3-month follow-up. In conclusion, this group psychotherapy might be of benefit in treating depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoichi Chida
- Faculty of Human Happiness, Happy Science University, 4427-1 Hitomatsuhei, Chosei-mura, Chosei-gun, Chiba, 299-4325, Japan.
- Department of Medical Science, Happy Smile Clinic, Kawasaki, Japan.
| | - Stephanie Schrempft
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Andrew Steptoe
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, London, UK
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Ellison CG, Hummer RA, Cormier S, Rogers RG. Religious Involvement and Mortality Risk among African American Adults. Res Aging 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/0164027500226003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This article examines the effects of religious involvement on mortality risk among African Americans. The authors use a relatively new and innovative nationally representative data set—the National Health Interview Survey matched to the National Center for Health Statistics’ multiple cause of death file—to model this relationship. The results show that, compared with African Americans who attend religious services more than once a week, those who never attend are more than twice as likely to die during the nine-year follow-up period, even net of a large number of confounding and mediating factors. The strong effect of nonattendance on mortality risk is robust, pervasive, and remarkably strong across all subgroups of the population, whereas a moderate level of attendance is associated with higher mortality risk among young adults, men, and Southerners, but not among older adults, women, and non-Southerners. Among African Americans, lack of religious involvement appears to be associated with risk of premature death, whereas frequent religious involvement stands out as a critical protective factor that contributes to lower mortality and longer life.
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Fradelos EC, Tzavella F, Koukia E, Papathanasiou IV, Alikari V, Stathoulis J, Panoutsopoulos G, Zyga S. INTEGRATING CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE PATIENT'S SPIRITUALITY IN THEIR CARE: HEALTH BENEFITS AND RESEARCH PERSPECTIVES. Mater Sociomed 2015; 27:354-8. [PMID: 26622206 PMCID: PMC4639341 DOI: 10.5455/msm.2015.27.354-358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2015] [Accepted: 10/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients who suffer from chronic renal disease face problems in many aspects of their life; problems such as physical and social as well as mental such as stress, anxiety, depression. In addition, they exhibit an amount of spiritual needs, which relate and influence the psychological adaptation to the illness. AIM The aim of this article is to examine evidence from the international literature regarding the possible relation of spirituality and health outcomes, mostly in the complex codex of a chronic and life treathing disease such as CKD. RESULTS Spirituality is a very debatable issue and the term has no single and widely agreed definition. The key components of spirituality were 'meaning', 'hope', 'relatedness/connectedness', and 'beliefs/beliefs systems'. Spirituality has been characterized as the quest for meaning in life, mainly through experiences and expressions of mind, in a unique and dynamic process different for each individual. For many individuals spirituality and religion are important aspects of their existence, constituting a source support contribute to wellbeing and coping with life's daily difficulties. CONCLUSION Considering, assessing and addressing chronic kidney disease patient's spirituality and spiritual needs is necessary and it can have a positive outcome in health related quality of life, mental health and life expectancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelos C Fradelos
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Human Movement and Quality of Life, University of Peloponnese, Sparta, Greece
| | - Foteini Tzavella
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Human Movement and Quality of Life, University of Peloponnese, Sparta, Greece
| | | | | | - Victoria Alikari
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Human Movement and Quality of Life, University of Peloponnese, Sparta, Greece
| | - John Stathoulis
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Human Movement and Quality of Life, University of Peloponnese, Sparta, Greece
| | - Georgios Panoutsopoulos
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Human Movement and Quality of Life, University of Peloponnese, Sparta, Greece
| | - Sofia Zyga
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Human Movement and Quality of Life, University of Peloponnese, Sparta, Greece
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Assari S, Moghani Lankarani M, Malekahmadi MR, Caldwell CH, Zimmerman M. Baseline Religion Involvement Predicts Subsequent Salivary Cortisol Levels Among Male But not Female Black Youth. Int J Endocrinol Metab 2015; 13:e31790. [PMID: 26633983 PMCID: PMC4659332 DOI: 10.5812/ijem.31790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2015] [Revised: 09/24/2015] [Accepted: 10/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Compared to Whites, Blacks are exposed to higher levels of chronic stress in the United States. As a result, major Black-White differences exist in the baseline and response of cortisol. Yet, the potential association between baseline religiosity and subsequent cortisol levels of Blacks are not known. OBJECTIVES In the current study we aimed to determine the association between baseline religious behaviors and daytime salivary cortisol level among male and female Black youth. MATERIALS AND METHODS With a longitudinal design, data came from wave 1 (1994) and wave 6 (2000) of a cohort from an urban area in the Midwest of the United States. The study followed 227 Black adolescents (109 males and 118 females) for six years. Socio-demographics and religious behaviors (frequency of participation in religious activities) were measured at baseline. Base morning cortisol level at wave 6 was the outcome. We fitted a linear regression model to test the association between baseline religiosity at wave 1 and cortisol level at wave 6, while baseline age, socio-economics, and psychological symptoms were controlled. RESULTS In the pooled sample, frequency of participation in religious activities at baseline was negatively associated with mean cortisol level at follow up (r = -0.29, P > 0.01) among all, males (r = -0.38, P > 0.01), but not females (r = -.20, P > 0.05). Frequency of participation in religious activities remained a significant predictor of subsequent cortisol level (b = -0.283, 95% CI = -.107 - -0.022) while the effect of age, socioeconomics, and psychological symptoms were controlled. We could only find such an association among male Black youth (b = -0.368, 95% CI = -0.148 - -0.024) but not female Black youth (b = -0.229, 95% CI = -.113 - 0.011). CONCLUSIONS Religiosity has been used as a coping mechanism among Blacks. Religiosity may also be related to stress regulation among Black youth. Future studies need to test complex associations between race, sex, religiosity, chronic stress, coping, and function of hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA). It is not known whether male Black youth who are and those who are not religious differently cope with stress associated with daily discrimination and living in disadvantaged neighborhoods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Assari
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
- Corresponding author: Shervin Assari, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA. Tel: +1-7342320445, Fax: +1-7346158739, E-mail:
| | - Maryam Moghani Lankarani
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
- Medicine and Health Promotion Institute, Tehran, IR Iran
| | | | - Cleopatra Howard Caldwell
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Marc Zimmerman
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
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Berk LS, Bellinger DL, Koenig HG, Daher N, Pearce MJ, Robins CJ, Nelson B, Shaw SF, Cohen HJ, King MB. Effects of Religious vs. Conventional Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy on Inflammatory Markers and Stress Hormones in Major Depression and Chronic Medical Illness: A Randomized Clinical Trial. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.4236/ojpsych.2015.53028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Abstract
Alzheimer disease (AD) is a dementing, neurodegenerative disorder that affects approximately 500,000 Canadians and its prevalence is expected to double over the next 30 years. Although several medications may temporarily augment cognitive abilities in AD, there presently exists no proven method to avoid the inevitable clinical deterioration in this devastating condition. The delineation of risk factors for the development of AD offers hope for the advent of effective prevention or interventions that might retard the onset of symptoms. In this article, we provide a comprehensive review of midlife risk factors implicated in the etiopathogenesis of sporadic AD. Although some risk factors are heritable and largely beyond our control, others are determined by lifestyle or environment and are potentially modifiable. In a companion paper, we introduce the concept of an Alzheimer Risk Assessment Clinic for ascertainment and mitigation of these and other putative dementia risk factors in middle-aged adults.
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Health benefits of religion among Black and White older adults? Race, religiosity, and C-reactive protein. Soc Sci Med 2014; 120:92-9. [PMID: 25226450 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2014.08.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2014] [Revised: 08/05/2014] [Accepted: 08/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The study investigates potential health benefits of religiosity to protect against chronic inflammation associated with the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The study uses longitudinal data from a representative survey of adults 57-85 years old at the beginning of the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project. Linear regression models were used to analyze the association between religiosity, as measured by affiliation, attendance, and having a clergy confidant, and logged values of C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration (mg/L). Although religious attendance was not related to CRP among the White respondents, attendance was associated with lower CRP-and change in CRP over time-among the Black respondents. There was no evidence that religious affiliation alone had any health benefit. The study provides evidence of the salutary effects of religious engagement on chronic inflammation among older adults, especially for Black Americans, which may be useful in reducing the prevalence of hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
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Hybels CF, George LK, Blazer DG, Pieper CF, Cohen HJ, Koenig HG. Inflammation and Coagulation as Mediators in the Relationships Between Religious Attendance and Functional Limitations in Older Adults. J Aging Health 2014; 26:679-697. [PMID: 24728938 DOI: 10.1177/0898264314527479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to examine inflammation and coagulation, which are positively linked to disability and inversely linked to increased religious attendance, as mediators in the cross-sectional relationships between religious attendance and functional status. METHOD Frequency of attendance and limitations in basic activities of daily living (ADLs), instrumental activities (IADLs), and mobility were assessed in 1,423 elders. RESULTS More frequent attendance was associated with fewer ADL, IADL, and mobility limitations, and with lower levels of inflammation and coagulation including interleukin-6, soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule, and D-dimer. Inflammation and coagulation partially mediated the associations between attendance and function. Eight percent of the effect of attendance on ADL (p = .014), 5% of the effect on IADL (p = .003), and 8% of the effect on mobility (p = .001) limitations were due to inflammation and coagulation. DISCUSSION Relationships between attendance and function may be due in part to lower levels of inflammation and coagulation among elders who attend services.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Harold G Koenig
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Hill TD, Rote SM, Ellison CG, Burdette AM. Religious Attendance and Biological Functioning: A Multiple Specification Approach. J Aging Health 2014; 26:766-785. [PMID: 24733752 DOI: 10.1177/0898264314529333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study explores the role of religious attendance across a wide range of biological markers. METHOD The data are drawn from the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project to assess continuous and categorical biomarker specifications. RESULTS Across specifications, higher levels of attendance are associated with lower levels of pulse rate and overall allostatic load. Depending on the specification, higher levels of attendance are also associated with lower levels of body mass, diastolic blood pressure, C-reactive protein, and Epstein-Barr virus. Attendance is unrelated to dehydroepiandrosterone, systolic blood pressure, and glycosylated hemoglobin across specifications. DISCUSSION The study confirms that religious attendance is associated with healthier biological functioning in later life. Additional research is needed to verify these patterns with other data sources and to test viable mediators of the association between religious attendance and biological risk.
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Anyfantakis D, Symvoulakis EK, Panagiotakos DB, Tsetis D, Castanas E, Shea S, Venihaki M, Lionis C. Impact of religiosity/spirituality on biological and preclinical markers related to cardiovascular disease. Results from the SPILI III study. Hormones (Athens) 2013; 12:386-96. [PMID: 24121380 DOI: 10.1007/bf03401304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed at exploring to what extent psychosocial factors, such as religiosity/spirituality and sense of coherence, mediate the negative effects of stress on a variety of cardiometabolic indicators, i.e., hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease, and atherosclerotic bio-clinical markers. DESIGN A total of 220 subjects (66.2±16.0 years) of the SPILI III cohort (1988-2012) attending a primary care setting in Spili, a rural town in Crete, represented the target group for the present study. Of these, 195 (88.6%) participated in the re-examination (67.2±15.2 years). All participants underwent a standardized procedure including evaluation of anthropometric measurements, biochemical indicators of atherosclerosis, stress hormones, in parallel with ultrasound measurements of carotid intima media thickness (IMT). Religiosity, spirituality and sense of coherence were evaluated with the use of international questionnaires translated into the Greek language and linguistically validated. RESULTS Participants with higher levels of religious and spiritual beliefs presented lower levels of carotid IMT (1.01±0.101 vs 1.53±0.502 mm, p<0.001). Patterns of inverse relationships were also observed between religiosity/spirituality and prevalence of diabetes (35.1% vs. 2%, p<0.001) with an estimated diabetes risk, fully adjusted odds ratio, 95% CI: 0.91 (0.87-0.94). Highly religious participants presented lower serum cortisol levels (12.3±5.8 vs. 18.2±5.1 μg/dl, p<0.001). Sense of coherence was positively associated with religiosity/spirituality [mean SOC (SD): 123±20 vs. 158±15) p<0.001]. CONCLUSIONS These findings may be associated with a possible favourable effect of religiosity/spirituality on several cardio-metabolic determinants, therefore deserving further attention by healthcare practitioners and researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Anyfantakis
- Clinic of Social and Family Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
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Bragazzi NL, Puente GD. Chronic Kidney Disease, Spirituality and Religiosity: A Systematic Overview with the List of Eligible Studies. Health Psychol Res 2013; 1:e26. [PMID: 26973911 PMCID: PMC4768585 DOI: 10.4081/hpr.2013.e26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2012] [Revised: 02/04/2013] [Accepted: 02/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) has a tremendous psychological burden, which sometimes is overlooked or underestimated in the daily clinical routine practice, since in the health care process physicians prefer to focus on the objective aspects of the pathology. In this contribution, we make a systematic overview of the relationship between spirituality/religiosity and CKD, an emerging theme which only recently has raised interest from the scientific community despite its importance. We investigate different variables, axis and categories (from the quality of life to customer’s satisfaction, treatment adherence and therapeutic alliance, clinical parameters, as well as overall survival, and coping strategies adopted by the patient). Moreover, we underpin the principal clinically relevant implications (like the possibility of psycho-therapeutic interventions based on the spiritual and religious attitudes of the patient) and we discuss the main gaps, methodological barriers and difficulties in the field, fostering and advocating further research and clinical studies. This last aspect, together with the quality assessment of the studies, will be further explored in the second part of the study.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giovanni Del Puente
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa , Italy
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Stewart WC, Adams MP, Stewart JA, Nelson LA. Review of clinical medicine and religious practice. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2013; 52:91-106. [PMID: 23484213 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-012-9578-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The purpose was to evaluate faith-based studies within the medical literature to determine whether there are ways to help physicians understand how religion affects patients’ lives and diseases. We reviewed articles that assessed the influence of religious practices on medicine as a primary or secondary variable in clinical practice. This review evaluated 49 articles and found that religious faith is important to many patients, particularly those with serious disease, and patients depend on it as a positive coping mechanism. The findings of this review can suggest that patients frequently practice religion and interact with God about their disease state. This spiritual interaction may benefit the patient by providing comfort, increasing knowledge about their disease, greater treatment adherence, and quality of life. The results of prayer on specific disease states appear inconsistent with cardiovascular disease but stronger in other disease states.
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48
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Raghavan R, Ferlic-Stark L, Clarke C, Rungta M, Goodgame R. The role of patient religiosity in the evaluation and treatment outcomes for chronic HCV infection. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2013; 52:79-90. [PMID: 21246281 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-011-9455-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
To determine the influence of patient religiosity on the outcome of treatment of hepatitis C infection, a prospective, blinded, cohort study was performed on hepatitis C-infected patients categorized as 'higher religiosity' and 'lower religiosity' based on responses to a religiosity questionnaire. Comparisons were made between high and low religiosity patients on demographics, pre-treatment laboratory values, and response to treatment. Eighty-seven patients with complete questionnaires were placed in either higher (38) or lower (49) religiosity cohort. The patients (60% female) were ethnically diverse: African-American 39%; Hispanic 31%; white 29%. African-American race (P = 0.001) and female gender (P = 0.026) were associated with higher religiosity. The frequency of being offered treatment, accepting treatment, and completing treatment was similar in both religiosity cohorts (P = 0.234, 0.809, 0.367). Fifty-six patients completed the 24- or 48-week treatment with peginterferon and ribavirin. Depression was more frequent in the low religiosity group (38.2% vs. 4.6%, P = 0.005). Sustained viral response rate at 3-6-month post-therapy was similar in the higher (50%) and lower (57.6%) religiosity cohorts (P = 0.580; n = 55). Logistic regression modeling revealed that males having higher religiosity gave greater odds of SVR than those with lower religiosity (OR 21.3; 95% CI 1.1-403.9). The level of religiosity did not affect the decision to begin treatment for chronic HCV infection and was not associated with a better treatment outcome. A higher level of religiosity was associated with less depression among patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajeev Raghavan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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49
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Koenig HG. Religion, spirituality, and health: the research and clinical implications. ISRN PSYCHIATRY 2012; 2012:278730. [PMID: 23762764 PMCID: PMC3671693 DOI: 10.5402/2012/278730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 632] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2012] [Accepted: 10/15/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
This paper provides a concise but comprehensive review of research on religion/spirituality (R/S) and both mental health and physical health. It is based on a systematic review of original data-based quantitative research published in peer-reviewed journals between 1872 and 2010, including a few seminal articles published since 2010. First, I provide a brief historical background to set the stage. Then I review research on R/S and mental health, examining relationships with both positive and negative mental health outcomes, where positive outcomes include well-being, happiness, hope, optimism, and gratefulness, and negative outcomes involve depression, suicide, anxiety, psychosis, substance abuse, delinquency/crime, marital instability, and personality traits (positive and negative). I then explain how and why R/S might influence mental health. Next, I review research on R/S and health behaviors such as physical activity, cigarette smoking, diet, and sexual practices, followed by a review of relationships between R/S and heart disease, hypertension, cerebrovascular disease, Alzheimer's disease and dementia, immune functions, endocrine functions, cancer, overall mortality, physical disability, pain, and somatic symptoms. I then present a theoretical model explaining how R/S might influence physical health. Finally, I discuss what health professionals should do in light of these research findings and make recommendations in this regard.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harold G. Koenig
- Departments of Medicine and Psychiatry, Duke University Medical Center, P.O. Box 3400, Durham, NC 27705, USA
- Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21413, Saudi Arabia
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Oman D, Thoresen CE. 'Does religion cause health?': differing interpretations and diverse meanings. J Health Psychol 2012; 7:365-80. [PMID: 22112748 DOI: 10.1177/1359105302007004326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The question, 'Does religion (or spirituality) cause physical health benefits?' may be given at least four diverging interpretations in terms of causal path diagrams. In common usage, the question may be interpreted to indicate that religion causally influences health by: (1) any mechanism, including well-established factors such as social support and improved health behaviors; (2) additional mechanisms, such as enhanced positive psychological states (e.g. faith, hope, inner peace) acting through psychoneuroimmunologic or psychoneuroendocrinologic pathways; (3) offering psychological strength for acquiring or maintaining positive health behaviors; or (4) causally influencing health by distant healing or intercessory prayer. We review historical confusion between these interpretations, arguing that disentangling them is important for collaborative health care, promotion and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doug Oman
- University of California, Berkeley, USA.
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