Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 29, 2025

Social Isolation Model: A Noninvasive Rodent Model of Stress and Anxiety
Published on: November 11, 2022
A bidirectional relationship between diabetes mellitus and anxiety: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Amanual Getnet Mersha1, Daniel Nigusse Tollosa1, Tanmay Bagade2
1School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, Newcastle 2308, New South Wales, Australia.
Background:
Due to the existence of inconsistencies in the evidence regarding the direction and extent of association between diabetes and anxiety disorders, the anxiety-diabetes comorbidity remains an issue of debate.
Aim:
To estimate the proportion and risk of diabetes among individuals with anxiety disorder and vice versa.
Methods:
A systematic review was conducted using studies retrieved from databases and grey literature, with the last database search being conducted on April 15, 2021. The methodological rigor of studies was assessed using the National Institute of Health quality assessment tool. Prevalence and effect size (ES) estimates were pooled using a random effect model. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Higgins' I2 statistical test, and subgroup analysis conducted.
Results:
We included 68 studies presenting data from 2,128,029 participants. The prevalence of anxiety disorders in diabetic patients was 28% (95% CI: 26%, 31%); however, subgroup analysis showed significant differences based on type of anxiety assessment scales, study location, and type of diabetes. The prevalence of diabetes among patients with anxiety disorders was 12% (95% CI: 9%, 16%). Patients with anxiety disorders were found to have a 19% higher risk of diabetes (pooled effect size (ES) = 1.19, 95% CI: 1.13, 1.26). Diabetic patients were found to have a 41% higher risk of developing anxiety disorders (ES = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.19, 1.62).
Conclusions:
There is a higher risk of anxiety disorders in patients with diabetes mellitus and vice versa. It is recommended to screen diabetic patients for anxiety at initial diagnosis and follow-up visits. Similarly, patients with anxiety disorders should have regular screening for diabetes.
Review Registration:
PROSPERO registration number CRD42021252475.
Related Concept Videos
Psychoneuroimmunology: Diabetes and Cancer
Anxiety: Overview
Individuals with anxiety often experience a range of physical and emotional symptoms, including sweating, trembling, tachycardia, and disturbances in sleep patterns. These symptoms vary in intensity and frequency but are generally disruptive and distressing.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Diabetes Mellitus: Type 2 and Gestational
Stress and Mental Health
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
Panic Disorder

