Anxiety and Depression in Patients with Pulmonary Hypertension and its Impact on Health-Related Quality of Life

Background: Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) is a chronic progressive disease which affects quality of life. The prevalence of mood disorders in PH patients in Saudi Arabia is not known. Objectives: This is a prospective observational study to investigate the prevalence of anxiety and depression in patients with pulmonary hypertension and its effect on health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Methods: Forty-two PH patients were evaluated for mood disorders by using Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and health related quality of life was assessed with The Short Form 36 (SF-36) Health Survey questionnaire. Results: Mean age for the cohort was 42.8 (13.3) years and 31(73%) were female. Mean pulmonary artery pressure was 46.4 (15) mm Hg and 25 (60%) patients had severe PH (mPAP >45 mmHg). Thirty-eight (90%) patients were in World Health Organization Functional Class (WHO-FC) II/III and 5 (10%) class IV. HADS anxiety and depression score was positive (11-21) in 4 (10%) and 6 (14%) patients respectively. Presence of anxiety and/or depression affected HRQoL. Conclusion: Prevalence of anxiety and depression in PH patients in Saudi Arabia is low (10% and 14% respectively) compared to published studies. The low prevalence may be explained by cultural and social differences and strong family support.