The interrelationship between nutritional risk, psychological factors, and quality of life in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): a hospital-based cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND

A strong link exists between nutritional status, psychological factors, and quality of life in chronic diseases.

AIM: This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the nutritional status, quality of life (QoL), and symptoms of anxiety/depression in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and to examine the relationships among these factors.

METHODS

Data were collected by face-to-face interviews. Anxiety and depression status were evaluated with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and health-related QoL with the SF-12. In addition to biochemical parameters, weight and height values were obtained from patient files. Neck, calf, and mid-upper arm circumference measurements were taken. Nutritional status was screened with NRS-2002, and 24-h food records were collected. Postprandial fatigue was also questioned.

RESULTS

The study included 180 patients. Anxiety was observed in 37% of patients, depression in 55%; 75.6% reported experiencing postprandial fatigue. NRS scores were higher, and QoL scores were lower in those with anxiety/depression. A positive correlation was found between anxiety and depression and NRS, QoL scores, and disease duration. Postprandial fatigue was associated with all these variables, and COPD duration, number of medications, NRS, and MCS were determining factors for anxiety, while NRS, PCS, and MCS were determining factors for depression. Additionally, dietary fiber and magnesium intakes were insufficient in patients with COPD.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that anxiety and depression in COPD patients are closely associated with higher nutritional risk and longer disease duration and are inversely linked to QoL. This highlights the importance of providing integrated psychological and nutritional support in managing the disease.