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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.

Last updated: Jul 7, 2026•0 RCTs•📖 Read as article →

Evidence Score

Evidence Score34/100
Human RCT☆☆☆☆☆
Meta-analysis☆☆☆☆☆
Mechanism★★★★★
Safety★★★★☆
Confidencelow

Study Evidence

Study 1. Asthma as a Predictor of Depression, Anxiety and Their Comorbidity in Australian Men.

observational

Mgbemena N, John EE, Anyasodor AE, Wong KC, MacFarlane T, Agho K, Osuagwu UL · American journal of health promotion : AJHP (2026)

Participants: N/A
Duration: 8 years (2014-2022)
Intervention: Asthma (self-reported exposure, not an intervention)
Outcome: Depression, anxiety, and comorbid depression with anxiety (assessed via self-reports and validated screening tools)
Effect Size: RR=1.23 for depression, RR=1.12 for anxiety, RR=1.27 for comorbidity
Population: 16,021 Australian men aged ≥18 years at baseline from the Ten to Men project

Result:

PubMed: 42400292DOI: 10.1177/08901171261465985

Mechanism Graph

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

Limitations

  • ⚠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.

Products

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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 content is 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.