Comparing anxiety sensitivity and metacognition beliefs in patients with irritable bowel syndrome and coronary heart diseases; a case-control study

Aim of the study: Two important diseases related to Psychological Factors Affecting Medical Condition (PFAMC) are Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and Coronary Heart Diseases (CHD). Relation between PFAMC and new psychological factors is still unknown. The present study aimed to compare anxiety sensitivity (AS) and metacognition beliefs in patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders, coronary heart diseases and healthy individuals in Isfahan, Iran. Material and Methods: This case-control study was conducted on 50 patients with IBS and 50 patients with CHD who diagnosed by cardiologists and gastroenterologists and 50 healthy individuals were matched by the same demographic variables (Gender, Education level, Marital status, Occupational status). The data collection tools consisted of the Anxiety Sensitivity Index (ASI) and Metacognition Questionnaire - 30 items (MCQ-30). The data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA). Results: The results showed CHD group has more significant physical concerns and mental incapacitation concerns compare to IBS and control groups. It means CHD patients have more fear of physical symptoms related to anxiety (such as rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, trembling and feeling faint) and physical symptoms related to anxiety (such as lack of concentration and nervousness). Also IBS group has significantly higher positive metacognitive beliefs than CHD and control groups. Discussion: The results showed that AS and metacognitive beliefs about worry play a crucial role in PFAMC such as IBS and CHD. Hence, the management of AS and metacognitive beliefs by clinicians in the treatment of these disorders is recommended.