PREVALENCE OF DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC HEART FAILURE: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Abstract

Background: Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a progressive condition that significantly impacts patients' physical and psychological well-being. Depression and anxiety are highly prevalent among CHF patients, complicating disease management and reducing quality of life. Despite this, these psychological conditions are often underdiagnosed and undertreated. Identifying the prevalence and predictors of these comorbidities is essential for developing integrated care strategies to improve patient outcomes.

Objective: To assess the prevalence and severity of depression and anxiety in patients with chronic heart failure and identify clinical and behavioral predictors associated with these psychological conditions.

Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 150 patients with chronic heart failure recruited from cardiology outpatient clinics. Depression and anxiety were assessed using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) and Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM-A). Clinical predictors, including reduced ejection fraction, anemia, chronic kidney disease, and alcohol use, were analyzed using logistic regression. Demographic and clinical data were collected through standardized questionnaires and medical records. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05.

Results: Among the participants, 72% exhibited depression and 77% exhibited anxiety. Mild depression affected 21.3% (n=32), moderate depression 36.7% (n=55), and severe depression 14% (n=21). Anxiety was classified as mild in 26.7% (n=40), moderate in 37.3% (n=56), and severe in 13.3% (n=20). Reduced ejection fraction (<40%) was a significant predictor of depression (OR: 4.12, p<0.01), while anemia (OR: 2.85, p<0.05) and chronic kidney disease (OR: 11.20, p<0.001) were associated with both depression and anxiety. Alcohol use was another critical predictor (OR: 6.00, p<0.01).

Conclusion: Depression and anxiety are highly prevalent in patients with chronic heart failure, driven by clinical and behavioral factors. The findings underscore the need for routine mental health screening and multidisciplinary interventions to improve patient outcomes.