Indiana University School of Medicine scientists develop blood test that can help diagnose anxiety. It is based on biomarkers that are associated with poorer mood and may indicate future risk of developing anxiety, as well as how changes in other conditions, such as hormonal levels, may affect the development of this condition, according to Science Alert..

“Many people suffer from anxiety, which can lead to disability and interfere with daily life.. Having something objective like this [test], where we can know what someone's current condition is, as well as possible risks and treatment options that fit the profile, helps people a lot,” said neuroscientist-psychiatrist Alexander Niculescu..

[see_also ids\u003d"

In their study, the researchers used methods that had previously led to the development of tests for depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder and pain levels..

Scientists collected Indianapolis Medical Center patients and assigned them to one of three groups.. The first group, called the biomarker discovery group, consisted of 58 people (41 men and 17 women) whose anxiety level changed at least once from one visit to the next.. This group allowed the team to look for possible signs that could be associated with changes in anxiety levels..

The biomarkers that were found in this group were tested on the second, which consisted of 40 people (32 men and eight women). The test was needed to make sure that biomarkers are really associated with anxiety..

Validated biomarkers were used to predict states of high anxiety and clinical anxiety in the third group. This biomarker testing cohort consisted of 161 men and 36 women for predicting high anxiety and 159 men and 36 women for predicting clinical anxiety..

Collecting the results of studies on three groups, scientists identified 19 biomarkers that can help determine changes in anxiety levels..

Anxiety disorder is widespread and has a big impact on people's quality of life, so it's important to try to better understand how to diagnose and treat it.. There are many social and psychological as well as physiological treatments for anxiety disorders, but it is difficult for doctors to find the right balance of drugs or therapy in the right amount at the right time..

Important! This publication is based on the latest and current scientific research in the field of medicine and is for general information purposes only.. Publication cannot be the basis for establishing any diagnoses. If you are ill or need a diagnosis, see your doctor!