Problem Statement: This study investigates the clinical manifestations of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in patients with COPD, highlighting the overlapping symptoms that complicate diagnosis and treatment.
Study Objective: To describe the clinical characteristics of GAD in patients with COPD.
Subjects and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 163 patients diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who were examined and treated at Hanoi Lung Hospital in 2025-2026.
Research Results: The prevalence of GAD in patients with COPD was 28.8%, higher in females (43.2%) than in males (24.6%), with statistically significant differences (p<0.05). The number of exacerbations (two or more) in the past 12 months was associated with GAD, accounting for 38.7% (p<0.05). In the group of physical symptoms, shortness of breath was the most common physical symptom (91.5%). In the group of mental symptoms, insomnia and restlessness were the most common, both accounting for 91.5%. Male patients were more likely to exhibit psychomotor tension (61.3%), while female patients exhibited irritability more frequently (75.0%).
Conclusion: Generalized anxiety disorder in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is more common in women aged 61-70 years. Shortness of breath and palpitations/tachycardia are the most common group of physical anxiety symptoms, while restlessness and insomnia are the most common group of mental anxiety symptoms.