Muslim-majority Countries Have Fewer COVID-19 Cases and Deaths: A Cross-country Analysis of 165 Countries During the 3 Global Peak Dates in 2020-2021

Abstract

Objective To determine the difference in the total number of COVID-19 cases and deaths between Muslim-majority and non-Muslim countries, and investigate reasons for anydisparities. Methods A cross-country panel analysis of the total number of new COVID-19 cases per million for 165 countries was conducted from May 1, 2020 to July 1, 2021. Regression models of the total number of COVID-19 cases and deaths per million were created for the 3 global peak dates of July 31, 2020 and January 7 and April 29, 2021. Results The number of daily new COVID-19 cases per million was signficantly less in Muslim-majority countries (N = 49) than non-Muslim countries (N=116), SD 1.57E-1, p-value <0.001 from May 1, 2020 to July 1, 2021. Total number of cases per million of Muslim-majority countries was significantly less on July 31st: 0.089, p-value <0.001; January 7th: SD 0.012, p-value 0.04; April 29th: SD 0.009, p-value <0.01. Total number of deaths per million of Muslim-majority countries was also significantly less on July 31st: 0.510, p-value 0.009; January 7th: SD 0.090, p-value <0.001; April 29th: SD 0.065, p-value 0.03. Discussion The data suggests a relationship between Islamic practices and the incidence of COVID-19 and COVID-19 related deaths. This study explored how that Muslims’ practice of tahara (purity or cleanliness) is similar to many COVID-19 containment measures and tawakkul (trust in Allah) helps them remain resilient and hopeful during difficult unpredictable times, such as living through a pandemic. Conclusion It is hoped that this paper brings awareness to the positive practices of the Islamic faith as it relates to COVID-19, and to population and individual health. Research should be conducted with Muslims in Muslim-majority and non-Muslim countries to further study the relationship between Islam and health.