Hospital Anxiety And Depression Scale Questionnaire Research Articles

ASSOCIATION OF INTERNET GAMING ADDICTION WITH INDICATORS OF DEPRESSION ON THE HADS SCALE AMONG MEDICAL UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

In recent years advances in gaming technology and a significant increase in Internet connection speeds have made online games more attractive and accessible. According to the available literature, excessive involvement in this type of Internet content can lead to stress, depression, anxiety, personal problems and a significant risk of suicidal behavior. Numerous studies have reported high rates of depression among medical students worldwide, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of the factors contributing to its formation. Purpose. To establish relationships between indicators of depression, determined by the HADS questionnaire, and Internet gaming addiction among students studying at a medical university. Materials and methods. The survey involved 244 boys and girls studying in the 3rd year of medical university. The presence of Internet gaming addiction, as well as the identification of depressive disorders with an assessment of the degree of their severity, was established using the Russian-language versions of the Game Addiction Scale for Adolescents (GASA) and The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) questionnaires. Results. According to the data obtained, the presence of Internet gaming addiction was identified in 7,4% of the examined students. Among the surveyed male students, this type of Internet addictive behavior was more common (10,6%) compared to female students (6,2%). Indicators of depression of varying severity, determined by the HADS questionnaire, were identified in 16,0% of the examined students. Moreover, among female students the frequency of identified depression was higher (17,4%) compared to male students (12,1%). It was found that more than half of students with depressive disorders (55,6%) suffered from Internet gaming addiction. It was noted that the number of patients with depressive disorders in combination with this type of Internet addictive behavior was higher in comparison with persons without Internet gaming addiction, both among male students (57,1% vs 42,9%), and among girls (54,5% vs 45,5%), respectively. Conclusion. Relationships have been established between indicators of depression, determined by the HADS questionnaire, and Internet gaming addiction among students studying at a medical university.

Prevalence of Depression and Anxiety among Pharmacy Students in Libya

Depression and anxiety are among the common mental health problems among medical students and are associated with poor academic performance. This study aimed to measure the prevalence of depression and anxiety among Libyan pharmacy students using Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted targeted pharmacy students in both public and private universities in Libya. A web-based self-reported survey was administered to students. The survey link was distributed online to a convenience sample of students at colleges of pharmacy between July and October 2023. Depression and anxiety were measured using the HADS questionnaires. Multiple linear regression was used to identify factors associated with depression and anxiety symptoms among the participants. In this study, the sample size was determined and found to be 1197 subjects which received surveys. Approximately 42.8% of the participants had depression symptoms and 44.5% had depression borderline symptoms. On the other hand, 39% of the participants had anxiety symptoms, while 33 % reported borderline anxiety symptoms. This study shows high prevalence of depression and anxiety among pharmacy students in Libya. Pharmacy students may be vulnerable to depression and anxiety because of long study hours. To reduce their levels of anxiety and depression, they need longer sleep hours, and a lower academic workload.

Is there a Relation between Depression and Anxiety to Clinical Characteristics among Patients with T2D in Greece?

Diabetes is a chronic disease that may be related to various periods of an individual's life. The aim of the present study is the investigation of the existence of depression and anxiety among patients suffering from type 2 diabetes as well as the factors that influence these variables (depression and anxiety). The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) for mental health assessment was used in the context of the collection of the research data. The study involved 100 patients (42 men and 58 women) with an average age of 63.72 ± 9.84 years of life. The results showed that there was a positive correlation between HbA1c value and anxiety as well as HADS questionnaire total score, and a positive correlation between blood glucose value and anxiety as well as HADS questionnaire total score. Both depression and anxiety of these patients are influenced by different clinical factors.

P247 Anxiety and depression in newly diagnosed patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease – Results from the IBSEN III study

Abstract Background There are few studies assessing anxiety and depression in newly diagnosed patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of anxiety and depression in patients newly diagnosed with Crohn`s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), and to compare anxiety and depression with the Norwegian general population. Methods Patients (≥18 years) were included from the Inflammatory Bowel Disease in South-Eastern Norway (IBSEN III) study, a large prospective observational inception cohort. Prevalences of anxiety and depression were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), where a dimensional sub-score of ≥8 was indicative of possible cases of anxiety (HADS-A) and depression (HADS-D). Data on the general population is retrieved from the Trøndelag Health Study (the HUNT Study), a large, population-based cohort study in Norway (N= 56041). Robust regression analyses were performed to compare HADS scores in the patients with IBD to individuals from the general population, adjusted for age and education. Prevalences of both depression and anxiety are estimated using the dichotomised HADS scores. Results Of the 1509 patients with a verified IBD diagnosis, 938 patients aged ≥ 18 years (62.1%) completed the HADS questionnaire (CD, 297 (31.7%), UC, 641 (68.3%). In the general population there were n= 41242 respondents of the HADS. The prevalence of anxiety in CD was 37.4% (95% CI [0.32; 0.43]) compared with 32.1% in UC (95% CI [0.28; 0.35]) and prevalence of depression was 21.9% in CD (95% CI [0.17; 0.27]), compared with 16.8% in UC (95% CI [0.14; 0.20]). In the general population, the prevalence of anxiety was 17.9 % (95% CI [0.18; 0.18]), and the prevalence of depression was 9.6% (95% CI [0.09; 0.10]), both significantly lower compared with the patients with CD and UC. Compared with the general population, male patients with CD scored significantly higher, 2.9 points higher (95% CI [2.5;3.4]) on HADS-A and 1.3 points higher (95% CI [ 0.9; 1.8]) on HADS-D. Male patients with UC scored significantly higher on HADS-A (B = 2.5, 95% CI [2.1; 2.8]) and HADS-D (B= 0.7, 95% CI [0.4; 1.0]). Female patients with CD scored significantly higher on HADS-D, B= 0.8 (95% CI [0.3;1.3]). No statistically difference between females with UC and females in the general population was found. Conclusion Anxiety and depression are prevalent in patients newly diagnosed with IBD, and significantly more prevalent in patients compared with the general population. Male patients especially, had significantly higher HADS scores compared with the general population. The results indicate considerable psychological impact of IBD in newly diagnosed patients.

Evaluation of obsessive-compulsive disorder prevalence in Iranian patients with multiple sclerosis and its relationship with demographic characteristics.

Background: The present study examined the prevalence of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) among Iranian patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and the relationship between OCD and the patient's demographic characteristics. Methods: The present study used a cluster sampling method to randomly select 297 patients with MS from the patients referred to the MS Clinic and Research Center of Sina University Hospital, Tehran, Iran, during 2018-2019. To gather the required data, a questionnaire consisting of demographic characteristics and disease information sections was used. Moreover, Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS), Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory-Revised (OCI-R), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) were employed in the present study. The comparison of qualitative and quantitative values between OCD-positive and negative groups was examined with chi-square test and independent samples t-test, respectively. Binary logistic regression was used as multivariate modeling to adjust the effects of potential confounders that could distort the relation of OCD with intended variables. Data were analyzed using SPSS software. The significance level was considered lower than 0.05. Results: Of the total of 297 patients, 77.8% were women. Moreover, analysis of the data obtained from the HADS questionnaire revealed that 11.44% (n = 34) and 15.15% (n = 45) of patients had severe depression and severe anxiety, respectively. The results of Y-BOCS indicated that the prevalence of severe OCD among patients was 19.9%. The OCI-R questionnaire revealed that the prevalence of OCD was 47.8%, which was consistent with the total of moderate, severe, and extreme values of Y-BOCS (47.9%). Furthermore, the subscales of ordering-arranging with 69 patients (22.9%) and obsessing with 46 patients (15.5%) indicated the highest frequencies as compared to other subscales. Moreover, OCD had a significant relationship with depression, anxiety, and type of MS in this regard. Conclusion: In this study, the prevalence rate of OCD among patients with MS was higher than its rate among the general population.

Psychological effects of recall after mammography: A cohort study based on the HADS questionnaire

Introduction: This study assessed anxiety and depression scores based on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) questionnaire, inpatients recalled after mammography. Methods: In this cohort study, women referred for mammography completed the HADS questionnaire. In 2019, 84 patients who required recall based on the results of their previous mammogram were selected and then completed the HADS questionnaire for the second stage. The HADS questionnaire was used to examine psychological problems. SPSS was used to analyze the collected data. Results: In this study, 86 women who were screened with mammography were evaluated. The mean age was 47.2±8.3 years. Based on the HADS questionnaire, the mean anxiety score before mammography was 10.2±4.8, and after the recall was 13.2±4.2, which was statistically significant (P<0.001). Also, the depression score in these patients before mammography was 10.7±3.8, and after the recall was 12.6±3.6 (P<0.001). Conclusion: Recalling patients after mammography can increase their anxiety and depression, which can decrease patients’ desire for follow-ups.

Enhancing Quality of Life in Cardiovascular Patients: The Role of Comprehensive Interventions and Cardiac Rehabilitation

Abstract Introduction Cardiac rehabilitation is an established strategy to improve cardiovascular outcomes in patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) and Heart Failure (HF). However, not all patients can participate in such programs. Intermediate interventions focused on lifestyle modification may be a potential strategy to improve outcomes. Depression and anxiety are common in patients with CVD and are linked to increased mortality. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) is a 14-item tool used to measure anxiety and depression symptoms and has been shown to be useful in assessing the psychological well-being of patients undergoing cardiac rehabilitation. Objective The objective of this retrospective study was to evaluate the impact of different levels of intervention on the quality of life of patients after cardiovascular events - ACS and CHF - in terms of depressive and anxious outcomes. Materials and Methods The study analyzed 56 patients who were previously hospitalized in the Cardiology department within one year: 47 for ACS and 9 for decompensated HF. After discharge, 19 patients attended a cardiac rehabilitation program (group 1), 19 had regular cardiovascular risk appointments and educational sessions conducted by psychiatrists, nutritionists, physiatrists, and cardiologists, but without participating in a physical rehabilitation program (group 2), and 18 patients were selected as controls without any of previous strategies (group 3). The group 1 intervention include also the measures implemented in group 2. All participants signed informed consent and completed the HADS questionnaire. Results The average age of the participants was 54.9 ± 9.9 years, with 29% females, and an average of 2.7 ± 0.6 cardiovascular risk factors. There were no significant differences in the distribution of ACS or decompensated heart failure between the groups. Group 1 predominantly presented a normal pattern of HADS scores (56% vs 40% vs 4%), respectively for group 1, 2 and 3. Conversely, in group 3 compared with group 1 and 2, there was a predominance of the abnormal score, respectively (50% vs 17% vs 33.3%); p <0.01. Conclusion The results suggest that patients who underwent regular appointments/education and cardiac functional rehabilitation exhibited lower levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms. In conclusion, the study indicates that a comprehensive intervention continuum, including cardiac rehabilitation and regular appointments/education, can significantly improve patients' quality of life and reduce their cardiovascular risk. Patients who undergo cardiac rehabilitation may experience the greatest benefits. The findings support the potential value of intermediate interventions focused on lifestyle modification as a strategy to improve outcomes for patients who cannot participate in a rehabilitation program.

Long-term prospective data on correlation between overall mortality and HADS (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) assessed psychological distress in prostate cancer patients (11 year follow-up data).

12091 Background: We prospectively assessed whether Psychological factors such as anxiety and depression can have a detrimental effect on long term overall survival of prostate cancer patients (pts). Methods: Prostate cancer pts participating in an ethics Committee approved, Prospective study evaluating an Andropause rating scale. All pts had radical radiotherapy with androgen deprivation therapy. Pts completed a baseline HADS questionnaire before any treatment was initiated & at 3mths & after completion of hormone therapy. Patient characteristics: Median age: 69 yrs (50 to 78 yrs). Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) prevalence at baseline as follows CCI-I 6.1%; CCI-II: 33.8%; CCI-III: 37.2%; CCI-IV: 14.2%; CCI-V: 6.1% and CCI-VI: 2.7%.; At the survival update in Feb 2023, 49.3% of patients have died [n = 148]; Gleeson grade was Low risk in 7.2%; Intermediate in 53.4% and high risk in 39.2%; Baseline PSA was < 10 ug/L in 45.3%; 10-20 ug/L in 33.1% and > 20 ug/L in 21.6% ; Tumour stage was T1 in 8.1% ; T2 in 63.5% and T3 in 28.4%. Baseline Median serum testosterone was 11.9 nmol/l (min 2.6 and max 26.7). Hormone duration was < 3 mths in 22.3%; 3-6mths in 35.8% ; 6 to < 36mths in 19.6% and > 36mths in 22.3%. Cox regression models estimated hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of overall mortality, while controlling for the following covariates (Age, T stage, Gleeson risk category, PSA Category, Baseline Serum Testosterone, ADT duration category and Charlson Comorbidity index). Results: Higher anxiety at time of diagnosis had a statistically significant adverse effect on overall survival (table); Higher depression symptoms at baseline did not affect survival but depressive symptoms after completing cancer treatment did affect all-cause mortality in this mature dataset with a median follow up of more than 11 years. Conclusions: Higher anxiety and depression symptoms in prostate cancer patients are associated with significantly higher long-term all-cause mortality. [Table: see text]

The non-negligible association between SYNTAX score and anxiety-depressive disorders.

Anxiety-depressive disorders are more common in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and are strongly associated with higher morbidity and mortality rates. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) is a wellvalidated diagnostic tool for screening of anxiety-depression disorders. The SYNTAX score (SS) is the angiographic scoring system and is commonly used to evaluate the severity and complexity of CAD. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between the HADS and SS. The HADS questionnaire was filled in by subjects before the coronary angiography procedure. Biochemical, clinical and echocardiographic parameters, and SS were evaluated in all patients. Patients were assessed using the HADS. The patients were divided into two groups according to the SS [≥ 23: high SYNTAX score group (HSSG), < 23 low]. The HADS scale was significantly higher in HSSG (24.8 ± 10.7 vs 11.3 ± 6.4 p < 0.001). There was no significant difference between the groups regarding laboratory parameters. On multivariate analysis, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidaemia and the HADS were independent predictors of high SYNTAX score. In our study, we found that diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidaemia and the HADS were independent predictors of a higher SS.

Context of a neonatal death affects parental perception of end-of-life care, anxiety and depression in the first year of bereavement

BackgroundNeonatal death is often preceded by end-of-life medical decisions. This study aimed to determine whether the context of death − after a decision of withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment (WWLST) or despite maximum care − was associated with subsequent risk of parental anxiety or depression. The secondary objective was to assess parents’ perceptions of end-of-life care according to death context.MethodsProspective single center observational study of all neonatal deaths in a neonatal intensive care unit over a 5-year period. Data were collected during hospitalization and from face-to-face interviews with parents 3 months after the infant’s death. Anxiety and depression were assessed using Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) questionnaires, completed by parents 5 and 15 months after death.ResultsOf 179 deaths, 115 (64%) occurred after the WWLST decision and 64 (36%) despite maximum care. Parental satisfaction with newborn care and received support by professionals and relatives was higher in the first condition. Sixty-one percent of parents (109/179) attended the 3-month interview, with the distribution between groups very close to that of hospitalization. The completion rates of the HADS questionnaires by the parents who attended the 3-month interview were 75% (82/109) at 5 months and 65% (71/109) at 15 months. HADS scores at 5 months were consistent with anxiety in at least one parent in 73% (60/82) of cases and with depression in 50% (41/82). At 15 months, these rates were, respectively, 63% (45/71) and 28% (20/71). Risk of depression at 5 months was lower after a WWLST decision (OR 0.35 [0.14, 0.88], p = 0.02). Explicit parental agreement with the WWLST decision had an equivocal impact on the risk of anxiety at 5 months, being higher when expressed during hospitalization, but not at the 3-month interview.ConclusionsContext of death has a significant impact on the emotional experience of parents after neonatal loss, which underlines the importance of systematic follow-up conversations with bereaved parents.

A Cross-Sectional Assessment of Parental Concerns in the Pediatric Surgery Department during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted various aspects of healthcare, including pediatric surgery. This study aimed to assess parental concerns and stress levels in pediatric surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic, identify factors associated with increased parental anxiety or concern, and provide recommendations for healthcare providers. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary pediatric hospital in Timisoara, Romania, involving 174 parents of pediatric patients requiring elective or emergency surgery, with a mean age of 37.6 (25-47) years, out of which 89.1% of respondents were women. Parental concerns were assessed using the Parental Concerns Questionnaire (PCQ), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). Parents of children undergoing emergency surgery (n = 108) reported higher levels on the practical impact domain of the PCQ scale (3.4 vs. 2.2, p < 0.001), emotional impact (2.7 vs. 2.2, p = 0.002), and total PCQ score (9.5 vs. 7.7, p < 0.001) compared to parents of children undergoing elective surgery (n = 66). Parents in the emergent surgery group also reported higher anxiety scores on the HADS questionnaire (7.9 vs. 6.5, p = 0.009) and higher perceived stress and total score on the PSS-10 survey (7.8 vs. 5.6, p = 0.046) (10.5 vs. 9.1, p = 0.047), respectively. A significantly higher proportion of parents in the emergent surgery group were concerned about restricted visitation policies (p = 0.013) and reported delaying or considering delaying their child's surgery due to the pandemic (p = 0.036). The results demonstrate heightened concerns, anxiety, and stress among parents of children undergoing emergency surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic. Healthcare providers should address parental concerns, provide clear communication, and ensure adequate support for families. Recommendations include enhancing information about COVID-19 precautions, reassuring parents about personal protective equipment availability, and facilitating family support within visitation restrictions.

Symptoms of anxiety and depression in patients with persistent asthma: a cross-sectional analysis of the INSPIRERS studies

ObjectivesAnxiety and depression are relevant comorbidities in asthma, but, in Portugal and Spain, data on this topic are scarce. We assessed, in patients with asthma, the frequency of anxiety and...

Health-Promoting Factors and Their Relationships with the Severity of Symptoms in Patients with Anxiety Disorders during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Anxiety disorders are one of the most common mental disorders in the modern world. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the onset of many mental disorders in people who did not have them before. It can be suspected that in people who already had anxiety disorders before the pandemic, their quality of life has significantly deteriorated. The aim of the study was to assess the relationships between life satisfaction, acceptance of illness, the severity of anxiety and depression symptoms and health behaviors in a group of patients diagnosed with anxiety disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study was conducted in the period from March 2020 to March 2022. There were 70 people among the respondents, including 44 women aged 44.06 ± 14.89 years and 26 men aged 40.84 ± 16.72 years. All persons were diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder. Patients with other co-occurring disorders were excluded, i.e., depression and signs of organic damage to the central nervous system, as were those with cognitive disorders that prevented the completion of the questionnaires. The following scales were used in the study: the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), Acceptance of Illness Scale (AIS), Health Behavior Inventory (HBI) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Spearman's rank correlation coefficient and the Mann-Whitney U test were used for statistical analyses. In the Satisfaction in Life questionnaire, the respondents obtained an average score of 17.59 ± 5.74 points. In the AIS scale, the mean score obtained by the patients was 27.10 ± 9.65 points. In the overall Health Behavior Inventory (HBI), the average score was 79.52 ± 15.24 points. In the HADS questionnaire, probants obtained an average of 8.17 ± 4.37 points in the depression subscale and 11.55 ± 4.46 points in the anxiety subscale. In addition, there were significant negative correlations between life satisfaction (SWLS) and the severity of anxiety and depression (HADS). The lower the perceived quality of life, the significantly higher the anxiety and depressive disorders. The result obtained in the Health Behavior Inventory (HBI) as well as in the subscale of Prohealth Activities (PHA) was negatively associated with the severity of anxiety symptoms. Prohealth activities should therefore be developed to prevent anxiety disorders, as well as to promote positive mental attitudes. In the study, the average result obtained in the subscale of positive mental attitudes correlated negatively with both anxiety and depressive symptoms. Life during the pandemic was assessed by patients as unsatisfactory. Health-promoting behaviors, and especially positive mental attitudes, may play a protective role in relation to anxiety and depressive symptoms in a situation of increased stress related to the COVID-19 pandemic in a group of patients with anxiety disorders.

Effects of the Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome with Surgery and Injections on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)

Background: The prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and of anxiety and depression in primary care practice are high. Different studies had shown an increased prevalence of anxiety and depression in CTS patients. Nevertheless, few papers had been published studying the anxiety and depression scales in the treatment of CTS, either with corticosteroid injections (I) or with surgical decompression (S). Objective: To assess whether clinical improvement observed after the treatment of CTS either with I or with S correlates with an improvement in the punctuations of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scales (HADS), at 3, 6 and 12-month follow-up. Methods: Randomized and open-label clinical trial, comparing I and S. Patients with symptoms suggestive of CTS (nocturnal paraesthesias) of at least 3 months duration and neurophysiological confirmation were included. Patients with clinically apparent motor impairment were excluded. The subjective evaluation of symptoms was carried out using the visual-analogue scale of pain (VAS-p). Clinical reviews were performed 3, 6 and 12 months after treatment. Each patient completed the HADS questionnaire and a VAS-p at 0, 3, 6, and 12 months. Statistical significance was established using the Student’s t test and the Mann-Whitney U test when necessary. A linear regression analysis was used to know the effect of the treatment adjusted for the initial score of both scales. Results: 65 patients were included (30 in group I and 35 in group S). There was no statistical difference between both groups in terms of age, gender distribution, disease duration, VAS-p, neurophysiological testing severity of CTS or the 8 subscales of HADS. Both groups improved significantly in relation to the baseline VAS-p values, in the reviews at 3, 6 and 12 months, with no significant differences between I and S. At 6 months, the reduction in the anxiety scale was around 3 points for both treatments (S = 3.6 and I = 3.2), without reaching significant differences. At 12 months, it was somewhat higher for those treated with I, but always around 3 points and without significant differences. The Depression scale score was slightly reduced at 6 months, and in a similar way for both groups (I = 1 and S = 1.19; p = 0.8). After 12 months, group I doubled the previous reduction, with group S experiencing a very slight change (I = 1.96 and S = 1.03; p = 0.3). When analysing the effect of group S on group I, the result was a reduction of 0.25 points for Anxiety (p = 0.7) and of 0.02 points for Depression (p = 0.9). Conclusions: Treatment of CTS with I or S results in a similar and discrete improvement in Anxiety scores on the HADS scale at 6 and 12 months. For both types of treatment, the Depression scores barely changed at 6 months, being somewhat higher in group I after 12-month follow-up. The independent effect of the S on both scales is small and not significant.

The Performance of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale for Screening of Anxiety and Depressive Disorders in Chinese Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis in Hong Kong

Objective: To evaluate the performance of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) for screening of depressive disorders and anxiety disorders in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in Hong Kong. Methods: Consecutive RA patients in the outpatient clinic of Pok Oi Hospital were invited to complete the validated Chinese-Cantonese version of the HADS questionnaire before clinical assessment by a psychiatrist for depressive disorders and anxiety disorders using the Chinese-bilingual Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I disorders, patient research version. Psychometric properties of the HADS were analyzed by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: For the HADS full scale, sensitivity and specificity at the optimal cut-off score of 16 for any psychiatric disorders were 83.0% and 81.0%, respectively (area under ROC curve [AUC] 0.91). For the depression subscale (HADS-D), sensitivity and specificity at the optimal cut-off score of 10 for any depressive disorders were 89.7% and 84.8%, respectively (AUC 0.93). For the anxiety subscale (HADS-A), sensitivity and specificity at the optimal cut-off score of 8 for any anxiety disorders were 88.5% and 74.1%, respectively (AUC 0.87). The HADS-D showed better screening properties for any depressive disorders than major depressive disorder. The HADS-A showed better screening properties for generalized anxiety disorder than any anxiety disorders. Conclusion: The HADS had good performance to screen for any psychiatric disorders and the HADS-D had good performance to screen for any depressive disorders. On the other hand, the HADS-A performed better for generalized anxiety disorder than for any anxiety disorders.

Quality of life and sexual function analysis in a group of Italian postmenopausal women after COVID-19 vaccination

Aim The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination on quality of life, psychological aspect and sexual life in a group of Italian postmenopausal women during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods The study was a prospective, observational analysis of postmenopausal women before and after the COVID-19 vaccination. The population previously answered different questionnaires, such as the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), the Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS), the 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36) and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Twelve weeks after the end of the vaccine cycle, these women were invited to complete the same questionnaires by e-mail to evaluate if vaccination coverage could positively impact the quality of life of postmenopausal women. The Patient Impression of Global Improvement (PGI-I) after three months of treatment was also calculated. Results A total of 114 patients were reported. The median age was 60.96 (52–66) years. Mean sexual intercourses/month increased from 1.28 ± 1.23 to 4.21 ± 1.80 (p = 0.001). The FSFI increased (19.22 ± 3.31 vs 29.24 ± 4.21, p < 0.0001) and the FSDS decreased significantly (20.12 ± 5.23 vs 9.32 ± 5.55, p < 0.0001) 12 weeks after vaccination coverage. The SF-36 increased from 64.23 ± 11.76 to 82.21 ± 10.24 (p < .0001) and the HADS questionnaire improved significantly from 9.3 ± 2.73 to 5.1 ± 1.34 after the COVID-19 vaccine execution (p<.0001). Conclusions The spread of COVID-19 vaccine coverage positively influenced sexual function, quality of life and psychological aspect in postmenopausal women.

The effect of cervical conization on women’s sexual function and psychological health (341)

Objectives: Diagnosis of cervical dysplasia and subsequent conization of the uterine cervix might affect women’s sexual health. The study objective was to assess the effect of cervical conization on women’s sexual function and psychological wellbeing using structured questionnaires. Methods: Patients undergoing conization of the cervix completed questionnaires before and 6-12 months after conization. Assessment of sexual distress and function was done using the female sexual distress scale-revised (FSDS-r) and the female sexual function inventory (FSFI), respectively. Risk for anxiety and depression was assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Results: From October 2018 to March 2021, 55 patients undergoing cervical conization were recruited. No significant differences were found in FSDS-r scores before and after conization. An equal number of patients indicated having sexual distress (29 patients, 53%, before and after conization, p=1.0). No significant changes were noticed on any FSDS domains or the total FSDS score before and after conization (26.8 vs 26.0, p=0.461). The percent of patients that indicated an overall sexual dysfunction, increased from 49 percent before conization, to 59 percent after conization (p=0.388). A high percentage of patients indicated signs of anxiety on the HADS questionnaire, both before and after conization (49% and 47%, respectively). The median anxiety and depression scores did not change after conization (p=1.0). Conclusions: A high percentage of patients undergoing conization suffer from sexual distress, sexual dysfunction, and general anxiety, both before and after conization. The conization procedure itself did not seem to affect questionnaire scores. Gynecologists should be aware of the psychological and sexual effects of the diagnosis and treatment of cervical pre-cancerous lesions; patients should be counseled accordingly. Objectives: Diagnosis of cervical dysplasia and subsequent conization of the uterine cervix might affect women’s sexual health. The study objective was to assess the effect of cervical conization on women’s sexual function and psychological wellbeing using structured questionnaires. Methods: Patients undergoing conization of the cervix completed questionnaires before and 6-12 months after conization. Assessment of sexual distress and function was done using the female sexual distress scale-revised (FSDS-r) and the female sexual function inventory (FSFI), respectively. Risk for anxiety and depression was assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Results: From October 2018 to March 2021, 55 patients undergoing cervical conization were recruited. No significant differences were found in FSDS-r scores before and after conization. An equal number of patients indicated having sexual distress (29 patients, 53%, before and after conization, p=1.0). No significant changes were noticed on any FSDS domains or the total FSDS score before and after conization (26.8 vs 26.0, p=0.461). The percent of patients that indicated an overall sexual dysfunction, increased from 49 percent before conization, to 59 percent after conization (p=0.388). A high percentage of patients indicated signs of anxiety on the HADS questionnaire, both before and after conization (49% and 47%, respectively). The median anxiety and depression scores did not change after conization (p=1.0). Conclusions: A high percentage of patients undergoing conization suffer from sexual distress, sexual dysfunction, and general anxiety, both before and after conization. The conization procedure itself did not seem to affect questionnaire scores. Gynecologists should be aware of the psychological and sexual effects of the diagnosis and treatment of cervical pre-cancerous lesions; patients should be counseled accordingly.

Phenotypes of body composition, physical performance and quality of life in women with rheumatoid arthritis

To evaluate the frequency of different body composition phenotypes, physical performance (PP) and their relationship with quality of life in women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The study included 157 women (average age 58.68.8 years) with RA. Clinical and laboratory examination, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, quality of life assessment according to the questionnaires EQ-5D (European Quality of Life Questionnaire), HADS (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) and RAID (Rheumatoid Arthritis Impact of Disease), determination of muscle strength and the PP of skeletal muscles were carried out. Osteoporotic, sarcopenic and osteosarcopenic phenotypes of body composition were identified in 27 (17%), 16 (10%) and 16 (10%) patients, respectively; 139 (88.5%) people had low muscle strength, and 96 (61.1%) had reduced PP. Quality of life according to the EQ-5D index and RAID, the severity of depression according to HADS in women with different phenotypes of body composition did not differ. Women with osteosarcopenic phenotype had worse indicators for EQ-5D-VAS (VAS visual analog scale), and patients with sarcopenic phenotype had more severe anxiety according to the HADS questionnaire compared to those with normal phenotype (p=0.014 and p=0.027, respectively). The quality of life according to all questionnaires was significantly worse in patients with reduced PP. Pathological phenotypes of body composition were found in 37% of RA patients. A decrease in muscle strength was revealed in 88.5%, and a low PP in 61.1% of patients. The relationship between quality of life and body composition has not been established, at the same time quality of life associated with the PP of skeletal muscles.

STUDYING THE RELATIONSHIP OF PSYCHOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS WITH THE LEVEL OF ADHERENCE TO TREATMENT OF PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC GASTRITIS

Abstract. Aim: to study the relationship between the level of adherence to treatment of patients with chronic gastritis and psychological characteristics and the severity of stress. Materials and methods. 302 patients with chronic gastritis (CG) were examined, which, de-pending on the level of adherence to treatment, were included in 4 groups: group 1 - 96 patients with HG associated with H.pylori (HP); in group 2 - 110 patients with chronic hepatitis not associated with HP. In patients of these groups, the compliance level was observed to be high. Group 3 was formed from 36 patients with CG associated with HP who refused treatment (low compliance), in group 4 - 60 patients diagnosed with CG associated with HP, who partially complied with the doctor's recommendations (moderate compliance). The data of the life history were analyzed, in particular, they were interviewed for the influence of stressful situations in everyday life and in the process of professional activity. The degree of adherence to treatment was assessed using the Davydov Compliance Questionnaire, anxiety levels (personal and situational) were determined using the Spielberger-Khanin questionnaire, anxiety and depression levels were determined using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). A correlation analysis was carried out to identify associations be-tween the level of patient’s adherence to treatment with the severity of the effect of stress factors on them and indicators of psychological status. Results. It was established that the maximum result of treatment - a high degree of eradication of the causative agent of CG was observed in patients of the first group. These patients fully complied with the recommendations of the doctor, at the same time, they were characterized by a lower frequency of exposure to stress. The minimum result of treatment was typical for pa-tients of the third group, which was due to their extremely low compliance. At the same time, these patients noted a high frequency of the influence of stress factors, at the same time they had relatively low levels of anxiety, assessed by the Spielberger and HADS questionnaires. The presence of statistically significant negative correlations of the average strength of the compliance level with the frequency of exposure to stressful life situations and professional stress, as well as positive associations of the compliance level with anxiety indica-tors, was established. Conclusion. The implementation of a set of measures, including correctly organized support for a patient with chronic gastritis, methods of psychological support based on the psychological characteristics of the patient, can increase the adherence of patients to the treatment, which, in turn, increases the frequency of effective eradication of Helicobacter pylori.

Self-Reported Anxiety and Depression in a Monocentric Cohort of Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Analysis of Prevalence, Main Determinants, and Impact on Quality of Life.

Aims of the studyTo analyze the prevalence of self-reported anxiety and depression in a monocentric cohort of patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE); to study the main determinants and the impact on quality of life (QoL).MethodsA cross-sectional observational study including adult outpatients with SLE. Demographic and clinical data were analyzed: indices of disease activity (SELENA-SLEDAI); damage (SLICC-DI); comorbidities and concomitant therapies. The definitions for remission (DORIS) and “Lupus Low Disease Activity State” (LLDAS) were applied. At enrollment, each patient completed the following questionnaires: SF-36, FACIT-Fatigue, Lupus Impact Tracker (LIT), Systemic Lupus Activity Questionnaire (SLAQ), and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) in order to self-assess anxiety and depression symptoms. The Student t-test and Chi2 tests were conducted for univariate analysis. The Spearman test was used for linear correlation between continuous data. Multivariate analysis was performed by multiple linear and logistic regression.ResultsOne hundred fifty-four consecutive patients with SLE were enrolled, the majority female and Caucasian with a mean age = 43.3 ± 13.7 years. 79.9% were in LLDAS or remission. 36.4% had a SDI > 1. 13.7% of patients had concomitant fibromyalgia. 37.4% had symptoms indicating anxiety and 25% of depression according to the HADS questionnaire. In the multivariate analysis, patients with active disease were significantly more anxious and depressed (p < 0.01) compared to patients in LLDAS or remission. Fibromyalgia and older age were independently associated with anxiety and depression, respectively (p < 0.05). Active skin involvement was significantly linked to depression (p < 0.05). Higher scores on the HADS questionnaire (higher levels of anxiety and depression) were found to be significantly linked to patients’ perception of higher disease activity and worse quality of life, irrespective of disease activity, age and fibromyalgia.ConclusionSymptoms of anxiety and depression are frequent in SLE patients, including outpatients with mild/moderate disease. Such symptoms have a significant negative impact on QoL and perception of disease activity, regardless of other factors. Moreover, disease activity, advanced age and fibromyalgia appear to be significantly linked to mood disorders. Assessing symptoms of the anxious-depressive spectrum in patients with SLE could lead to improvement in patients’ perception of health status and quality of life.