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Generalized anxiety disorder is associated with reduced lung function in the Vietnam Experience Study
Douglas Carroll1, Anna C Phillips, Catharine R Gale
1School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom. carrolld@bham.ac.uk
Psychosomatic Medicine
|September 28, 2011
Summary
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and major depressive disorder (MDD) were examined for their impact on lung function in male veterans. GAD showed a persistent association with reduced lung function even after adjusting for various health factors.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Limited research exists on the link between major mental health disorders and lung function.
- This study investigates the relationship between generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and major depressive disorder (MDD) and lung function in a large cohort of male U.S. veterans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the cross-sectional associations of GAD and MDD with lung function.
- To determine if these associations persist after controlling for potential confounders.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from 4256 participants in the Vietnam Experience Study.
- Assessed one-year prevalence of GAD and MDD using DSM-III criteria.
- Measured lung function via forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) using spirometry.
Main Results:
- Both GAD and MDD were initially associated with lower FEV1.
- After adjusting for demographics and health behaviors, GAD remained significantly associated with poorer lung function (p = .01).
- The association between MDD and lung function was no longer significant after full adjustment (p = .18).
Conclusions:
- While depression has been a focus, findings highlight the independent impact of GAD on lung function.
- Suggests future research should consider GAD with equal importance when examining mental health and physical health status.
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