Assessment of anxiety levels in patients during elective upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and colonoscopy

Background/aims: Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and colonoscopy are frequently performed procedures that can cause anxiety related to disappointing expectations, embarrassment and fear of discomfort. The aim of this study was to examine the possible relationship between state anxiety and trait anxiety with upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and colonoscopy. Methods: Ninety-eight consecutive outpatients (52 gastroscopy and 46 colonoscopy) undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and colonoscopy were interviewed to evaluate anxiety. Anxiety was rated at baseline and immediately prior to upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and colonoscopy using the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Results: A modest but significant increase was detected in state anxiety prior to upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and colonoscopy but no change was detected in trait anxiety in either group. Anxiety levels were not related with the type of endoscopic procedure. State anxiety scores increased from 36.9 (28.5-42.5) to 45.7 (27.5-48.0) (p=0.001) in patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and from 36.2 (26.5-38.5) to 44.8 (30.5-48.0) (p=0.001) in patients undergoing colonoscopy. Females had higher anxiety levels than males in both groups. Conclusions: Diagnostic outpatient upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and colonoscopy were associated with remarkable anxiety in patients; however, anxiety levels were not related with the type of endoscopic procedure.