The Southern Medical Journal (SMJ) is the official, peer-reviewed journal of the Southern Medical Association. It has a multidisciplinary and inter-professional focus that covers a broad range of topics relevant to physicians and other healthcare specialists.

SMJ // Article

Editorial

Religion and Spirituality: Important Psychosocial Variables Frequently Ignored in Clinical Research

Authors: Kenneth E. Olive, MD

Abstract

Religious and spiritual beliefs and practices are fundamental to the identity of many people. But, are such beliefs and practices relevant to health care? Previous work published in a variety of journals suggests that they are. Religious and spiritual variables have been associated with lower levels of mortality in prospective cohort studies,1,2 improved recovery from surgery,3,4 lower levels of substance abuse,5,6 coping with serious illness,7 immune function in HIV-infected patients,8 blood pressure control,9 and lower levels of health care utilization.10 Patients recognize the importance of these issues in their own lives, and many want physicians to consider these factors in their health care.11,12Furthermore, physician values may affect their clinical decisions and their interactions with patients.13,14 A limited number of studies have included a spiritual dimension in patient care, and examined health-related outcomes.15,16

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