Prevalence of Depression and Anxiety Symptoms and Associated Factors Among Adults Attending Otolaryngology Clinics in Saudi Arabia

Depression and anxiety are common among patients with chronic illnesses and can substantially affect quality of life. Patients with otorhinolaryngology (ENT) conditions may be particularly vulnerable. This study assessed the prevalence of depressive and anxiety symptoms among adults attending ENT clinics in Saudi Arabia and identified associated factors.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among a...

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✦ The floor

Discussion

Signed responses from readers of the wire.

✦ Clinical Takeaway ✦

Audiologists and ENT clinicians should be aware that patients attending their clinics may carry a significant burden of depression and anxiety symptoms, warranting routine screening or referral pathways — but the specific prevalence numbers from this Saudi Arabian sample may not generalize to other populations.

✦ Why It Matters ✦

Quantifying the mental health burden in ENT/audiology clinic populations supports the case for integrated care models that address both hearing and psychological well-being.

✦ Key Points ✦

01Cross-sectional study conducted in otolaryngology (ENT) clinics in Saudi Arabia.
02Assessed prevalence of depression and anxiety symptoms using validated screening tools.
03Identified patient-level factors (e.g., demographic or clinical characteristics) associated with higher symptom burden.
04High comorbidity of mental health symptoms in ENT patients aligns with global literature linking hearing/balance disorders to psychological distress.
05Findings are limited to the Saudi Arabian context and may not generalize broadly.

✦ Claims & Evidence ✦

ClaimEvidenceSupport

A significant proportion of adults attending otolaryngology clinics in Saudi Arabia have symptoms of depression or anxiety.

studysupported

Specific demographic or clinical factors are associated with higher rates of depression and anxiety in this patient population.

studypartially supported

✦ Research metadata ✦

PMID: 42981592
DOI: 10.1177/00912174261504291.
Journal: Journal of Psychosomatic Research
Publication type: research_article
Evidence level: 4
Population: Adults attending otolaryngology clinics in Saudi Arabia
Intervention: Survey-based screening for depression and anxiety symptoms

Primary outcomes

Prevalence of depression symptoms; Prevalence of anxiety symptoms; Factors associated with depression and anxiety

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