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Anxiety severity and cognitive function in primary care patients with anxiety disorder: a cross-sectional study.
- Source :
-
BMC Psychiatry . 12/9/2021, Vol. 21 Issue 1, p1-13. 13p. 3 Charts, 2 Graphs. - Publication Year :
- 2021
-
Abstract
- Background: Deficits in cognitive performance are reported in patients with anxiety disorders, but research is limited and inconsistent. We aimed to investigate cross-sectional associations between cognitive function, with focus on executive function, and anxiety severity in primary care patients diagnosed with anxiety disorders. Methods: 189 Swedish patients aged 18–65 years (31% men) with anxiety disorders diagnosed according to Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview were included. Severity of anxiety was assessed using Beck Anxiety Inventory self-assessment scale. Digit span, block design and matrix reasoning tests from the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale IV, and the design fluency test from the Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System were used. Multivariable linear regression models were applied to investigate the relationship of anxiety severity and cognitive functioning. Comparisons were also performed to a normed non-clinical population, using the Wilcoxon signed rank test. Results: More severe anxiety was associated with lower digit span test scores (R2 = 0.109, B = -0.040, p = 0.018), but not with block design, matrix reasoning or design fluency tests scores, after adjustment for comorbid major depression in a multivariable model. When compared to a normed population, patients with anxiety performed significantly lower on the block design, digit span forward, digit span sequencing and matrix reasoning tests. Conclusions: Severity of anxiety among patients with anxiety disorder was associated with executive functions related to working memory, independently of comorbid major depression, but not with lower fluid intelligence. A further understanding of the executive behavioral control in patients with anxiety could allow for more tailored treatment strategies including medication, therapy and interventions targeted to improve specific cognitive domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 1471244X
- Volume :
- 21
- Issue :
- 1
- Database :
- Academic Search Index
- Journal :
- BMC Psychiatry
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 154042518
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-021-03618-z