Effects of depression and anxiety on asthma-related quality of life.

INTRODUCTION

Asthma is the most prevalent chronic disease in adults. It affects their quality of life. Studies confirm that depression and anxiety occurs in asthma patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study involved 96 patients with asthma divided into two groups: patients with controlled (n = 33) and uncontrolled asthma (n = 63). The analysis of asthma control was performed on the basis of the ACT (Asthma Control Test) results. The study used SF-36 (Short Form 36) questionnaire and HADS (Hospital and Depression Scale) Scale.

RESULTS

An analysis of the correlations between QoL (Quality of Life) and the level of depression revealed a decrease in QoL scores in MCS (Mental Component Score) domain in the group with controlled asthma (71.8 - patients without depression, 53.4 - patients with probable depression, and 51.4 - patients with depression; p = 0.032). A similar analysis of the correlations between QoL and the level of anxiety in this group of patients proved no correlations in PCS (Physical Component Score) and MCS domains. In the group of patients with uncontrolled asthma, anxiety and depression correlated negatively with the QoL in PCS and MCS domains. Anxiety and depression are found in asthma patients, with higher severity observed in patients with uncontrolled asthma. Female gender, the level of asthma control, asthma severity, smoking, as well as diagnoses of anxiety and depression are predictors of a significantly lower QoL in asthma.

CONCLUSIONS

Anxiety and depression are found in asthma patients, with higher severity observed in patients with uncontrolled asthma. Female gender, the level of asthma control, asthma severity, smoking, as well as diagnoses of anxiety and depression are predictors of a significantly lower quality of life in asthma.