A monthly newsletter from the National Institutes of Health, part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Because of a lapse in government funding, the information on this website may not be up to date, transactions submitted via the website may not be processed, and the agency may not be able to respond to inquiries until appropriations are enacted. The NIH Clinical Center (the research hospital of NIH) is open. For more details about its operating status, please visit cc.nih.gov. Updates regarding government operating status and resumption of normal operations can be found at opm.gov
Health Capsule
Spirituality in Cancer Care and Serious Illness
Spirituality and religion can help many patients and families cope with difficult diseases like cancer. Spirituality is related to the way you look at the world and how you make sense of your place in it. It can include faith, religion, beliefs, values, and reasons for being.
The links between spirituality, religion, and health are not well understood. Yet, it often influences important decisions, including end-of-life care. Some research suggests that spiritual and religious practices can support a positive attitude. That can help patients and caregivers feel better. Spiritual or religious well-being may also reduce anger and discomfort. It can decrease alcohol and drug abuse. And it may reduce blood pressure and heart disease risk. Spiritual well-being may also boost inner peace and freedom from regret.
It helps the medical team if patients or family bring up any spiritual issues that are on their mind. Many hospitals have someone who can give support to people of different faiths, as well as those who aren’t religious at all. You could also ask your health care team about local experts or organizations that help patients with serious illness and survivors.
Learn more about spirituality in cancer care and serious illness.
NIH Office of Communications and Public Liaison
Health and Science Publications Branch
Building 31, Room 5B52
Bethesda, MD 20892-2094
Contact Us:
nihnewsinhealth@od.nih.gov
Phone: 301-451-8224
Share Our Materials: Reprint our articles and illustrations in your own publication. Our material is not copyrighted. Please acknowledge NIH News in Health as the source and send us a copy.
For more consumer health news and information, visit health.nih.gov.
For wellness toolkits, visit www.nih.gov/wellnesstoolkits.