Religion and Spirituality as a Social Determinant of Health

There are multiple factors known as social determinants of health. In this North Dakota State University (NDSU) Public Health Seminar, Paul Carson, MD, FACP discusses studies examining “Religion and Spirituality as a Social Determinant of Health: Clinical and Public Health Implication.”

Dr. Carson shares a robust body of epidemiologic research demonstrating that religion, and in particular, religious practice, is a potent social determinant of both mental and physical health.

Several major academic institutions now have centers dedicated to researching these connections and their implications. Yet this is rarely recognized or considered in either clinical medicine or public health. This seminar explores the connection between religion and health as well as the potential implications for both clinical medicine and public health policy.