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Asthma is associated with increased risk of depression, anxiety, and their comorbidity in Australian men

In a retrospective cohort study of 16,021 Australian men followed from 2014 to 2022, self-reported asthma was significantly associated with higher risks of depression (RR=1.23), anxiety (RR=1.12), and comorbid depression with anxiety (RR=1.27). The highest prevalence of comorbid depression and anxiety (28%) was reported in 2020.

1 min read•Updated Jul 7, 2026•0 RCTs•View structured evidence →
Evidence Score34/100
Human RCT☆☆☆☆☆
Meta-analysis☆☆☆☆☆
Mechanism★★★★★
Safety★★★★☆
Confidencelow

This article is automatically generated from the structured evidence profile behind the claim above. Scores reflect the quality and quantity of available research, not clinical advice.

Asthma is associated with increased risk of depression, anxiety, and their comorbidity in Australian men The current body of evidence comprises 1 study. EvidenceHub rates the overall confidence at 34/100 (low).

The Claim

Asthma is associated with increased risk of depression, anxiety, and their comorbidity in Australian men

This conclusion is most relevant to: 16,021 Australian men aged ≥18 years at baseline from the Ten to Men project.

What the Research Shows

The conclusion draws on 1 linked study. Highlights from the cited literature:

  • ▸Asthma as a Predictor of Depression, Anxiety and Their Comorbidity in Australian Men. (American journal of health promotion : AJHP, 2026) —

How It Works

The proposed biological pathway:

  • ▸Asthma may cause chronic inflammation and hypoxia
  • ▸Chronic inflammation and hypoxia affect brain function and neurotransmitter systems
  • ▸These physiological changes increase vulnerability to mood and anxiety disorders
  • ▸Result: Higher risk of depression, anxiety, and their comorbidity

Who Might Benefit

Evidence fit by population:

  • ▸16,021 Australian men aged ≥18 years at baseline from the Ten to Men project

Limitations & Caveats

Important context when interpreting this evidence:

  • ▸Asthma and mental health outcomes were self-reported, which may introduce reporting bias
  • ▸The study is observational, so causality cannot be established

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the study design?▼

This was a retrospective cohort study using data from the Ten to Men project across four waves (2014-2022).

How large was the sample?▼

The study included 16,021 Australian men aged 18 years and older at baseline.

What were the main risk factors besides asthma?▼

Significant risk factors included survey year (2020 and 2022), sleep disturbances, and being a former or current smoker.

What is the clinical implication of this finding?▼

The study highlights the need for integrated respiratory and mental health care, with targeted screening and interventions for men with asthma.

References

  1. 1.Mgbemena N, John EE, Anyasodor AE, Wong KC, MacFarlane T, Agho K, Osuagwu UL. “Asthma as a Predictor of Depression, Anxiety and Their Comorbidity in Australian Men..” American journal of health promotion : AJHP, 2026. PMID: 42400292 DOI: 10.1177/08901171261465985
Disclaimer: This article is auto-generated from structured research data for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Evidence scores reflect the quality and quantity of available research, not clinical recommendations. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement or intervention.