Symbols (clockwise from top) representing Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism, and Christianity (source credit)
Religion and spirituality have been recognized as cultural diversity factors that merit respectful attention (rather than neglect) in many health and human service professions, including medicine, psychology, social work, and others. Examples also exist of attention to religion/spirituality as diversity factors in public health.
Empirical Evidence Base
Diversity is partially reflected in the evidence base. The largest quantity of empirical evidence on spirituality, religion and health is about Judeo-Christian traditions. However, growing bodies of evidence link health to practices such as religious coping and meditation/contemplative prayer that are found across all major traditions. Growing evidence also links health outcomes with Buddhism, Islam, and other major traditions. On the Viewscreen recognizes all major spiritual and religious traditions as relevant to Public Health education and research.