Frequency of Anxiety Disorder in Patients with Rheumatic Heart Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Background: The prevalence of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, is increasing, which is accompanied by psychological complications, including anxiety. Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) is also affected by psychological aspects during the course of the disease. The present study aimed to investigate the frequency of anxiety disorder in patients with rheumatic heart disease. Methods: The present study is a descriptive cross-sectional study that was conducted on 100 patients with rheumatic heart disease referred to Afshar Heart Center in Yazd. In order to collect information, a list of patients with rheumatic heart disease was initially extracted. The instrument used was the Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety (HRSA). The results were analyzed using SPSS v.22 software. Results: The results showed that in the patients studied, 30% had mild anxiety disorder, 29% had moderate anxiety disorder, and 12% had severe anxiety disorder. The mean anxiety was significantly higher in women than in men (P-value=0.023). Also, the mean anxiety was not significant according to history of substance use, medication use, place of residence, history of disease, type of ventricular disease, and age groups (<0.05). Conclusion: The results of this study indicate the prevalence of anxiety disorder in patients with rheumatic heart disease in mild and moderate forms. Anxiety is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, and people who are happier and more active and have no symptoms of anxiety have hope for the future and a longer life expectancy. Therefore, it is necessary to examine the mental state of these patients, and it is necessary to deploy psychology and psychotherapy specialists in cardiovascular surgery centers and provide necessary training and treatment to patients with rheumatic heart disease.