Impact of Climate Change Anxiety on Sinusitis Symptoms and Quality of Life Among Adults With Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Cross-Sectional Study

Climate change has emerged as a major global health concern, with growing recognition of its psychological impacts, including anxiety, distress, and perceived environmental instability. These psychosocial effects may exacerbate symptoms in chronic inflammatory conditions such as Chronic Rhinosinusitis (CRS), a disease characterized by persistent nasal congestion, facial pressure, and impaired quality of life.

This study aims to explore the correlation between self-perceived climate change anxiety and CRS symptom severity and QoL in an adult population. A total of 134 participants with CRS, aged ≥18 years, were recruited to complete an online Arabic-language survey. The survey included demographic information, the SNOT-22 scale, a validated quality of life questionnaire, and a climate change stress scale.

The primary objective is to assess the association between climate change stress and symptom severity (SNOT-22 total score). The secondary objective is to determine the relationship between climate change anxiety and QoL. The study uses Pearson's correlation analysis to examine these associations.

This research introduces a novel psychosomatic dimension to CRS management by highlighting how environmental and psychological stressors may influence disease burden. Results may inform multidisciplinary approaches for patient care, incorporating environmental awareness and mental health support.

Inclusion criteria

Participants must meet all of the following:

Adults aged 18 years or older Self-reported or clinically diagnosed with Chronic Rhinosinusitis (CRS) with symptoms lasting ≥12 weeks Able to read and understand Arabic Able to complete the online questionnaire independently Provided informed consent prior to participation Exclusion Criteria

Participants will be excluded if they meet any of the following:

Diagnosis of severe psychiatric or psychological disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder) History of major chronic illnesses that may confound outcomes (e.g., cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic neurological disease) Recent nasal or sinus surgery within the past 3 months Incomplete survey responses that prevent data analysis Participants under 18 years of age