Pattern of HADS-Anxiety score among Medical Outpatients in Enugu, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Symptoms of anxiety disorders vary widely among physically ill patients. Early detection and treatment of anxiety will reduce the economic burden of common medical disorders and provide empirical data for public health educators and policy makers for the development of guidelines for health workers and care givers.

Objectives: The objective of the present study was to determine the correlates and predictors of anxiety symptoms based on the Hospital anxiety and depression scores among patients attending medical outpatient clinic in a Tertiary hospital in Enugu South East Nigeria.

Methods: This was a cross sectional study conducted at the Medical Outpatient Clinic of Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, Enugu Nigeria. All consecutive consenting patients were recruited. Anxiety symptoms were explored using the Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale. Study duration was 6 months. Statistical analyses were one using SPSS version 22.

Results: A total of 512 (males 190(37.1%), females 322 (62.9%)) individuals were recruited. Significant anxiety symptoms (≥ 8) was reported by 16(3.1%) patients; similar in males and females. P=0.51. Anxiety symptoms, negatively correlated with age (r=-0.14, p<0.01) and positively with use of alternative/herbal medication (r=0.16, p <0.001), having arthritis (r=0.11, p=0.01), stroke, (r=0.09, p=0.04), chronic headache r=0.11, p=0.01 and peptic ulcer disease (r=0.09, p=0.04). Younger age was a significant predictor of anxiety scores. p=0.03.

Conclusion: Several modifiable and non-modifiable factors correlate with anxiety symptoms among out patients in Enugu. There is need to involve mental health practitioners in the education and care of medical outpatients.