Illness anxiety disorder linked to increase risk of death

A recent study conducted by Swedish researchers sheds light on a disturbing connection between obsessive disorder, specifically illness anxiety disorder, and an elevated risk of death. The study, published in JAMA Psychiatry and covered by the Washington Post, focused on individuals diagnosed with obsessive compulsions, a condition characterized by excessive worry about illness or the fear of contracting it.

Surprisingly, the study revealed that individuals with illness anxiety disorder were, remarkably, 84% more likely to die from various diseases, including heart, blood, and lung diseases, as well as suicide, compared to those without this disorder.

The research analyzed data from 4129 individuals diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder, using Swedish census and health databases spanning from 1997 to 2020. Alarmingly, the results indicated that those with obsessions passed away, on average, five years younger than their counterparts who did not suffer from this disorder.

Furthermore, the impact extended beyond mortality rates, affecting the overall quality of life for those with obsessive disorders. The study discovered that individuals with obsessions were less likely to attain higher education, get married, or achieve higher incomes.

In considering these findings, David Mattix-Coles, a professor of neuroscience and psychiatry at Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, expressed the contradicting nature of the results. Despite the intense anxiety experienced by those with Illness anxiety disorder regarding health and death, the risk of premature demise remained alarmingly high.

The study also highlighted the issue of underdiagnosis of obsessive-compulsive disorder, suggesting that the actual risk of death may be even higher when undiagnosed cases are taken into account.

One possible explanation for these findings is chronic stress, which may be exacerbated by constant health-related worries. Such stress could potentially contribute to a shortened lifespan for individuals with OCD.

Highlighting the urgency of the matter, Mattix-Coles emphasized the need for greater attention and resources for individuals struggling with OCD. Effective treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and antidepressant medications, exist; however, they are underutilized.

Researchers aim to continue exploring the impact of OCD on various aspects of life, including education and professional pursuits. Mattix-Coles stresses the importance of acknowledging this disorder more broadly and improving access to available treatments.