Disability associated with comorbid anxiety disorders in women with chronic physical illness in Ontario, Canada.

Anxiety disorders are more prevalent in individuals with chronic physical illness compared to individuals with no such illness, and about twice as prevalent in women as in men. This study used data collected in the 2005 Canadian Community Health Survey (21,198 women and 20,478 men) to examine factors associated with comorbid anxiety disorders and to assess the relation of these disorders on short-term disability and suicidal ideation. Comorbid anxiety disorders were more prevalent among women who were young, single, poor, and Canadian-born, and among women with chronic fatigue syndrome; fibromyalgia, bowel disorder or stomach or intestinal ulcers, or bronchitis had the highest rates of anxiety disorders. The presence of comorbid anxiety disorders was significantly associated with short-term disability, requiring help with instrumental daily activities, and suicidal ideation. Our findings underscore the importance of early detection and treatment of anxiety disorders in the physically ill, especially those who also suffer from mood disorders.