Regular attendance at religious services could reduce the risk of death by approximately 20%, according to researchers who evaluated the religious practices of 92 395 post-menopausal women. The study, based on data drawn from participants who spanned numerous religious denominations, adjusted for participation of individuals within communal organizations and group activities that promote a strong social life and enjoyable routines-behaviours known to lead to overall wellness. However, even after controlling for such behaviour and other health-related factors, the improvements in morbidity and mortality rates exceeded expectations.
Published in PsychDigest, Jan 2009 (vol. 2, no. 9)
Sources:
Albert Einstein College of Medicine (2008, November 19). Study suggests attending religious services sharply cuts risk of death. Einstein News. Retrieved January 5, 2009, from http://www.aecom.yu.edu/home/news.-asp?id=261
