Prevalence of anxiety and depression among COPD patients and impact on disease progression

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive, preventable, and treatable lung disease characterized by persistent airflow limitation. It is mainly caused by long-term exposure to harmful particles, particularly cigarette smoke, with additional contributions from genetic factors, environmental exposures, occupational hazards, respiratory infections, and childhood asthma. In susceptible individuals, inhalational exposure triggers inflammation, leading to a protease-antiprotease imbalance and resulting in lung tissue damage. Chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and mechanical stress continue to worsen the condition even after smoking cessation. COPD diagnosis is made using spirometry, which measures airflow obstruction. Treatment includes bronchodilators like beta-2 agonists (e.g., salbutamol, formoterol) and antimuscarinics (e.g., ipratropium, tiotropium), along with cautious use of cardioselective beta-blockers for patients with cardiovascular disease. Non-pharmacologic strategies, such as smoking cessation and pulmonary rehabilitation, are essential for improving quality of life. The primary objectives of this study are to assess the prevalence of anxiety and depression in COPD patients and to understand their impact on disease progression. Secondary objectives include evaluating patients’ quality of life, smoking prevalence among hospitalized COPD patients, the frequency of sleep disturbances, and medication adherence. Understanding these factors will help in developing better management approaches to improve patient outcomes and overall well-being.