Can spirituality affect a cancer patient's recovery?

Many cancer patients turn to their spiritual and/or religious beliefs and practices to help them cope with the disease. Some research studies have shown that strong spiritual and/or religious beliefs may improve a cancer patient's life by:

• Reducing anxiety, depression, and discomfort.
• Making the person feel less alone.
• Helping the person adjust to the effects of cancer and its treatment.
• Increasing the ability to enjoy life during cancer treatment.
• Creating a feeling of personal growth as a result of living with cancer.
• Improving the effectiveness of treatment.

On the other hand, a serious illness like cancer can create great spiritual distress. Some patients may feel that the disease is a punishment by God, or they may lose their faith completely. Such distress may have negative effects on the patient's overall health and interfere with the ability to cope with cancer and its treatment.

Cancer patients with spiritual needs should talk with their doctor, religious leader, hospital chaplain, or social worker. These professionals can offer support and counseling. They also may know about faith-based local organizations that provide special services for cancer survivors.

choose back button for more from this category, or below for CIS index