Prevalence of Anxiety and Depression in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Introduction: Inflammatory bowel diseases are chronic conditions of the digestive system, characterized by an unpredictable course and long-term progression. These patients deal daily with symptoms such as abdominal pain, chronic diarrhea, arthralgia, and unintentional weight loss, which negatively impact their everyday activities, leading to isolation, anxiety, and depression. Objective: To assess the prevalence of anxiety and depression in adult patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Material and Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted according to PRISMA methodology, using the PubMed and Scielo databases. Results: Of the 10 studies included in this systematic review, 2 (20%) evaluated the prevalence of anxiety and depression in patients with Crohn’s disease; 2 (20%) in ulcerative colitis; and 6 (60%) in inflammatory bowel disease. The prevalence of depression ranged from 7.3% to 58.6%. Regarding anxiety, prevalence ranged from 14.4% to 65.7%. In Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, anxiety showed a higher prevalence than depression. In inflammatory bowel disease, 50% (n = 3) of the studies reported that anxiety prevalence was higher than depression. Overall, in 70% of the studies included in this review, the prevalence of anxiety in patients with these conditions was higher than depression prevalence. Conclusions: Considering the prevalence of anxiety and depression in these individuals, a more holistic treatment approach aligned with their physical and psychological needs should be implemented.