Recent studies have shown a positive relationship between spirituality and health. Aldwin et al. (2014) proposed an organising model on the regulatory processes which could explain this relationship, exploring the importance of spirituality for adjustment to chronic illness, coping, and even mourning. The study of religion and spirituality allows a more complete knowledge of the human being (Hill, Pargament, Hood, McCullough, Swyers, Larson, & Zinnbauer, 2000).

Moreover, several studies have explored the relationship between spirituality and health. Hill et al. (2000) have gathered some characteristics of these two constructs that attest their importance. Religion and spirituality are developed throughout the life span. They are also psychosocial phenomena, related to the cognitive processes, affections, and emotions of people, and relevant to the study of personality (Gouveia, 2016). Scientific evidence has demonstrated the relationship between spiritual well-being, adjustment to chronic illness, management of symptoms, self-care promotion, and experience of health-illness transitions.

Each country involved in this project will develop a specific study, framed within its culture. Since there are common dimensions, comparative studies will be carried out. The ethical procedures will follow the rules and traditions in force in each country. The global study will facilitate a better understanding of what is spirituality and how can it be included in healthcare.