Spiritual and religious well-being may be associated with improved quality of life.

It is not known for sure how spirituality is related to health. Some research shows that spiritual or religious beliefs and practices promote a positive mental attitude that may help a patient feel better. Spiritual and religious well-being may be associated with improved quality of life in the following ways:

• Reduced anxiety, depression, and discomfort.
• Reduced sense of isolation (feeling alone).
• Better adjustment to the effects of cancer and its treatment.
• Increased ability to enjoy life during cancer treatment.
• A feeling of personal growth as a result of living with cancer.
• Improved health outcomes.

Spiritual distress may contribute to poorer health outcomes.

High levels of spiritual distress may interfere with the patient's ability to cope with cancer and cancer treatment. This distress may contribute to poorer health outcomes and less satisfaction with life. Health care providers may encourage patients to seek advice from appropriate spiritual or religious leaders to help resolve their conflicts, which may improve their health, quality of life, and ability to cope.

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