Validation of the Distress Thermometer for detecting psychological distress in patients with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: optimal cut-off score and influencing factors.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are at high risk for psychological distress, yet validated screening tools are not routinely used in clinical practice. The Distress Thermometer (DT), originally developed for cancer patients, is a brief screening tool for detecting psychological distress. However, the optimal cut-off in COPD patients remains unclear.

Aim

This study aims to validate the DT for use in stable COPD patients and to explore factors influencing psychological distress.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 386 stable COPD patients. Data were collected using sociodemographic questionnaires, the DT, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale (HADS). Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) analysis was e

SUBMITTER: Tian X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12329928 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature