ANXIETY DISORDERS AS A FACTOR REDUCING THE QUALITY OF LIFE IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC SOMATIC DISEASES

Abstract

Relevance. Chronic somatic diseases are widespread and are accompanied by a significant reduction in the quality of life of patients. One of the key factors that aggravate the course of somatic pathology and disrupt social adaptation is anxiety disorders, which often remain undiagnosed and are insufficiently taken into account in clinical practice. Aim of the study. To assess the influence of anxiety disorders on quality-of-life indicators in patients with chronic somatic diseases. Materials and methods. The study included 90 patients aged from 30 to 65 years with chronic diseases of the cardiovascular system, the respiratory organs and the gastrointestinal tract. The level of anxiety disorders was assessed using standardized psychometric scales. Quality of life was studied with the use of a universal questionnaire including physical and psycho-emotional components. Statistical processing of the data was carried out by methods of descriptive statistics and correlation analysis at a significance level of p < 0.05. Results. Anxiety disorders were identified in 62.2 % of the patients examined. A significant reduction in quality-of-life indicators was established in patients with anxiety disorders in comparison with patients without anxiety (p < 0.05). As the severity of anxiety increased, a progressive deterioration of physical, emotional and social functioning was observed. A negative correlation was found between the level of anxiety and quality-of-life indicators (r from –0.41 to –0.58; p < 0.05). Conclusion. Anxiety disorders are a significant factor in the reduction of quality of life in patients with chronic somatic diseases and exert a systemic influence on physical and psycho-emotional functioning. The results obtained substantiate the need for early detection and comprehensive correction of anxiety disorders within an interdisciplinary approach to the management of this category of patients.