A influência da espiritualidade sobre a hipertensão arterial: uma revisão integrativa

Abstract

Introduction: Systemic Arterial Hypertension (SAH) is a chronic disease characterized by persistent elevation of blood pressure. Its origin is multifactorial and includes genetic, emotional, and lifestyle factors. Spirituality is linked to positive emotions that enable the control of emotional stress. Therefore, this study aims to explore the influence of spirituality/religiosity in the management of SAH. Methodology: Integrative Review with the following guiding question: "Can religious or spiritual aspects assist in controlling blood pressure in patients with arterial hypertension?" Articles collected from the virtual databases PubMed (MEDLINE) and Virtual Health Library (BVS), published between 2012 and 2022, non-duplicated, and related to the topic were reviewed. Descriptors related to SAH and religious/spiritual aspects were used, with both groups combined using the Boolean operator "AND," and terms within the same group combined using the operator "OR." The research followed the PRISMA methodological protocol. Results and Discussion: 14 articles were analyzed, including studies conducted in the United States, Asian countries, and Brazil. Religious coping showed a positive impact on blood pressure control, especially in high-stress situations. Religious practices, such as attending temples, were associated with lower blood pressure due to social support. Religious diets like vegetarianism in Buddhism and fasting during Ramadan in Islamism reduced blood pressure through metabolic mechanisms. Meditation was linked to hypertension prevention. Genetics, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status influenced the relationship between religiosity/spirituality and hypertension. Conclusion: Healthcare professionals should consider spirituality when treating hypertensive patients, promoting a holistic approach that takes into account both physical and spiritual aspects of well-being.