Religious services reduce death risk

[fishbait]

The study, published in the journal Psychology and Health (http://www.redorbit.com/news/health/1602028/religious_services_reduce_death_risk/index.html)

A U.S. study suggests that regular attendance at religious services reduces the risk of death by approximately 20 percent, researchers said.So 20% of church goers are going to live forever?

[articulett]

I think it just feels like they live longer--ha! A thousand little deaths.

Actually, I think the study was found to be flawed because healthier people are more likely to go to church while their sick and cancer ridden counterparts are not part of those "attending religious services" though they may, in fact, be religious.

Although there is an increase in euthanasia type suicides in older people, I suspect these would be people who don't fear going to hell for hastening their death.

[biomorph]

There's also a trend for the church goers in the GB to be more wealthy, it's not that attractive to the poorer members of society generaly.

You do see lifespan connected to wealth (I think?) in most countries.....nutrition, better living conditions, private healthcare.

I wouldn't mind betting that being part of social group makes for some sort of stress relief also, that might be a factor, perhaps....

[fls]

There is another discussion on this study here (http://forums.randi.org/showthread.php?t=129261).

Linda

[IndridCold]

This effect may just be from interacting with people you like. Chilling out with people who think the same as you reduces stress and builds relationships. I am sure if you looked into people who attend a regular social gathering would have the same effect.

[fishbait]

A U.S. study suggests that regular attendance at religious services reduces the risk of death by approximately 20 percent, researchers said.Correct me if I'm wrong, but I always though the risk of death was 100% regardless of what you do. It's just a matter of time.

[articulett]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I always though the risk of death was 100% regardless of what you do. It's just a matter of time.

Nope. You're right. Church attendance might prolong life-- but for me it would be prolonging the boring parts not the good parts.