Investigation of the relationship between depression and anxiety symptom levels and respiratory functions in patients with COPD

Objective: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a highly prevalent chronic airway disease with significant personal and social impacts. It is a major public health issue worldwide. This study aims to investigate the impact of depression and anxiety levels on respiratory function in patients with COPD, elucidating the role and effects of these two important psychological conditions in disease management. Method: Between October 2023 and December 2023, 72 COPD patients hospitalized in the Chest Diseases Department of Erciş State Hospital were administered a questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) through face-to-face interviews. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics 23.0 software. Descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analyses were performed. Results: The mean age of the participants was 70.1 ± 9.2 years, with 63.9% being male. The mean body mass index (BMI) was 21.1 ± 4.3. The mean BDI total score was 18.9 ± 13.6, and the mean BAI total score was 25.4 ± 14.8. Significant correlations were found between forced expiratory volume in one second percentage, mMRC score, BDI and BAI total scores and number of hospitalizations. According to multiple regression analysis results, forced expiratory volume in one second percentage, mMRC score, BDI and BAI total scores had significant effects on number of hospitalizations. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that depression and anxiety are prevalent among COPD patients and that these conditions negatively impact the frequency of hospitalizations and clinical outcomes. Regular assessment of psychosocial status and provision of necessary psychosocial support are recommended in the management of COPD. These findings highlight the need for a multidisciplinary approach in the treatment processes of COPD patients.