Associations between asthma and the risk of mental and behavioral problems in males

To investigate the association between asthma and the risk of mental health problems in Australian men, and to assess the influence of age on this association.

Data from 16,021 men aged 10-37 years participating in the Ten to Men, the Australian Longitudinal Study on Male Health were analyzed. Logistic regression models and generalized estimating equations (GEEs) were used to examine the relationship between asthma and anxiety, depression and hazardous alcohol consumption. Stratified models were conducted to explore the impact of age on this association, dividing participants into three groups: Boys aged 10-17 years; Young adults aged 18-30 years; and adults aged 31-57 years.

Men with asthma have 68% higher risk of developing anxiety compared to non-asthmatic men in adjusted models. The risk of anxiety was highest in the young adult group (OR (95% CI) = 2.15 (1.56-2.96)). An association between asthma and depression was also identified (OR = 1.39, 95% CI = 1.11, 1.73) and adults (men aged 31-57 years) were at higher risk (OR = 1.33, 95% CI = 1.02, 1.72). Asthma was not associated with hazardous alcohol consumption in the overall population or within any specific age group.

Australian men with asthma have a greater risk of developing anxiety and depression. The findings contribute to understanding sex-specific impacts of asthma on mental health and identify men at higher risk of anxiety and depression. Our study also provides research evidence to support frequent psychological monitoring in men with asthma.