Men with Asthma Face Higher Chances of Depression and Anxiety

The study followed over 16, 000 Australian men from 2014 to 2022 to see how asthma might affect mental health. Researchers looked at self‑reported asthma and then measured depression, anxiety, and both together using validated questionnaires. They also considered age, income, smoking habits, sleep problems and other health issues. Results showed that between 12. 8 % and 33. 2 % of the men reported depression at different times, while anxiety was present in 17. 3 % to 51. 3 %. When both conditions appeared together, the rate climbed from 11 % to 28 %, peaking in 2020. Men with asthma had a 23 % higher risk of depression, a 12 % greater chance of anxiety, and a 27 % increased likelihood of experiencing both conditions simultaneously.

Other important factors were the year of survey, sleep disturbances and smoking status. Those who had stopped or still smoked were more likely to show mental health problems. The findings suggest that doctors should not only treat asthma but also screen for depression and anxiety, especially in men who smoke or have trouble sleeping. An integrated care plan could help manage both breathing and emotional health.

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