A recent U.S. study has revealed the profound impact of spirituality and religious beliefs on reducing stress and depression among cancer patients, offering them much-needed emotional comfort during treatment.
Conducted by the Mount Sinai Health System, the research explored how discussions about faith between doctors and patients undergoing radiation therapy helped ease psychological burdens, especially for those battling gynecological and other forms of cancer.
For the first time, researchers identified the types of spiritual questions patients most wanted to discuss during their treatment journey. These conversations not only helped patients feel better understood but also provided them with inner strength to cope with the difficult realities of cancer.
According to the study, 82 percent of patients said faith was “very important” in their lives, and many reported reduced depression through religious or spiritual practices that enhanced their resilience during treatment.
The findings come at a critical time, as medical experts highlighted that cancer patients are among the most vulnerable to stress and depression, with over 40 percent even suffering from post-traumatic stress months after treatment. In such cases, spirituality emerged as a strong support system, helping patients remain emotionally balanced.
The study emphasized that emotional health is just as crucial as physical health in the fight against cancer. Patients who received spiritual support often reported feeling calmer, more hopeful, and better equipped to handle the challenges of treatment.
Researchers argue that spiritual care could become a standard part of cancer therapy, complementing medical interventions with emotional resilience.
Looking ahead, the team at Mount Sinai plans to expand the study to a broader patient group and explore ways to integrate faith-based support early in the cancer diagnosis process. They are also developing training modules for doctors, equipping them to respectfully and effectively address patients’ spiritual needs as part of holistic cancer care.
