Anxiety in children and adolescents with chronic physical illnesses: a meta-analysis

Acta Paediatr. 2011 Aug;100(8):1069-76. doi: 10.1111/j.1651-2227.2011.02223.x. Epub 2011 Mar 15.

Abstract

To compare levels of anxiety of children with chronic illness with healthy peers and population norms. Meta-analysis integrated results from 332 studies. Children with chronic illness had elevated levels of anxiety (d=0.18 standard deviation units). Strongest elevations were found for chronic fatigue syndrome, migraine/tension headache, sensory impairment and epilepsy. Paediatricians should screen for anxiety symptoms in children at risk and offer interventions, if needed.

Publication types

  • Meta-Analysis

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Anxiety Disorders / complications*
  • Anxiety Disorders / diagnosis
  • Child
  • Chronic Disease*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Psychology, Adolescent
  • Psychology, Child
  • Psychometrics
  • Somatoform Disorders / diagnosis