Time-Bound Cross-Sectional Analytical Study to Estimate the Burden of Anxiety, Depression, Stress among Patients of Interstitial Lung Disease Visiting AIIMS Rishikesh Outpatient Department and Their Association with Sarcopenia (Code-T0324)

Introduction: Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a chronic condition causing progressive 
respiratory impairment and significantly impacting patients’ physical and mental well-being. 
Psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and stress, is frequently observed in ILD 
patients but often goes undiagnosed due to overlapping symptoms. Sarcopenia, characterized by 
loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength, is also prevalent in ILD and may contribute to 
worsened health outcomes. This study aims to estimate the burden of psychological distress in 
ILD patients and assess its association with sarcopenia.
Aims and Objectives
Aims: To estimate the burden of anxiety, depression, stress and quality of life among patients of 
Interstitial Lung Disease and their association with sarcopenia. 
Primary Objective
To study Burden of anxiety, depression, stress and quality of life among (QOL) patients of 
Interstitial Lung Disease.
Secondary Objective
To study association of sarcopenia with:
• Anxiety in patients with Interstitial Lung Disease.
• Depression in patients with Interstitial Lung Disease.
• Stress in patients with Interstitial Lung Disease.
• QOL in patients with Interstitial Lung Disease.
Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted at AIIMS Rishikesh, involving ILD 
patients visiting the Pulmonary Medicine outpatient department. Psychological distress was 
assessed using the DASS-21 scale, and quality of life was measured using the WHOQOL-BREF 
questionnaire. Sarcopenia was evaluated through handgrip strength measurement, six-minute 
walk test, and bioelectrical impedance analysis. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM 
SPSS software.
Results: The study found a high prevalence of anxiety, depression, and stress in ILD patients, 
with a significant association between sarcopenia and psychological distress. Patients with 
sarcopenia reported poorer quality of life and functional outcomes.
Conclusion: Sarcopenia is strongly linked with psychological distress in ILD patients, 
highlighting the need for integrated management strategies addressing both physical and mental 
health. Early identification and intervention can improve overall patient outcomes.
Keywords: Interstitial Lung Disease, Sarcopenia, Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Quality of Life.