The Effect of Smoking Dependence Level on Patients 'Anxiety Levels of COPD Patients

Aim: COPD is a significant public health problem that also affects the mental aspect. In this study we aimed to show the effects of smoking on anxiety in COPD patients by measuring anxiety levels. Materials and Methods: Our study was conducted in outpatient clinics of Family Medicine Department and Chest Diseases Department at Ankara Training and Research Hospital between March-June 2016. 147 individuals with COPD were included in the study. Demographic questions, ‘‘State- Trait Anxiety Inventory’’ and pulmonary function test were applied to all patients while ‘‘Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence’’ was only for the current smokers. The data were analyzed using SPSS statistical software version 16.0. Results: 147 COPD patients in the age range of 35-80 years including 56 females (%38,1) and 91 males (%61,9) were enrolled in the study. State- Trait Anxiety Inventory was applied to all patients. Current smokers with a number of 86 (%58,5) also performed Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence. The average anxiety scores of COPD patients were higher than the normal values. COPD severity, presence of comorbid chronic illness and age were significantly correlated with anxiety levels of the patients. Increasing severity of COPD, the presence of comorbid chronic illness and higher ages increased the levels of anxiety in COPD patients. Conclusion: Anxiety levels are increased in patients with COPD. Family physicians who see the patients first and most frequent should also evaluate the COPD patients psychologically and should lead them to a psychiatrist if necessary. Besides all COPD patients should be encouraged to quit smoking independently of anxiety levels.