Religion and Health

Studies have shown that Christians are more likely to have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity, which are all risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

Buddhists are more likely to adopt healthy behaviors, such as eating a plant-based diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep, which may contribute to a lower risk of cancer.

Catholics are more likely to report feeling depressed, anxious, and hopeless than members of other religious groups.

Mormons have a lower suicide rate than members of other religious groups.

Hindus are more likely to use alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs than members of other religious groups.

Muslims are more likely to abstain from sex outside of marriage, which may contribute to a lower risk of sexually transmitted diseases.

Catholics are more likely to have multiple sexual partners and to engage in unprotected sex, which may contribute to a higher risk of HIV/AIDS.

Seventh-day Adventists have a lower risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes, than members of other religious groups.

Atheists are more likely to die prematurely than members of religious groups.

Jews have a lower risk of all-cause mortality than members of other religious groups.

Catholics are more likely to have strong social support networks than members of other religious groups.

Buddhists are more likely to report feeling calm, relaxed, and at peace than members of other religious groups.

Hindus are more likely to report feeling happy, satisfied, and content with their lives than members of other religious groups.

Muslims are more likely to report feeling connected to others and to have a sense of belonging than members of other religious groups.

Catholics are more likely to report feeling a sense of meaning and purpose in their lives than members of other religious groups.