Asthma, much more than a respiratory disease: influence of depression and anxiety

Rev Assoc Med Bras (1992). 2021 Apr;67(4):571-576. doi: 10.1590/1806-9282.20201066.

Abstract

Objective: The goals of this study are to compare self-reported depression and anxiety in subjects diagnosed of asthma and healthy controls.

Methods: We designed a case-control study. Subjects were recruited using a consecutive sampling method from a single institution. Two groups were created: Asthma and healthy controls. Data of medical history and demographic background were collected from the medical record. Self-reported depression level was assessed using Beck's depression inventory (BDI). Self-reported anxiety was measured with the "State-trait anxiety inventory" (STAI).

Results: Fifty-one subjects with asthma, and fifty healthy patients were included in this study. BDI scores (p<0.001) were higher for asthma (10.22±7.3) than in the control group (5.2±6.56). STAI state (p<0.001) was higher in asthma (42.61±11.5) than in controls (34.88±9.25). STAI trait (p<0.001) showed higher scores in asthma (43.14±10.89) than in controls (34.62±9.19).

Conclusions: These study findings showed that BDI, and STAI trait and state scores are significantly higher in subjects who suffer from asthma than healthy controls.

MeSH terms

  • Anxiety
  • Anxiety Disorders
  • Asthma*
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Depression*
  • Humans