US adults should get routine anxiety screening, panel says - KSL.com

Preventive Services Task Force has recommended anxiety screening in primary care for adults without symptoms.

Given reports of a surge in mental health problems linked with pandemic isolation and stress, the guidance is "very timely," said Lori Pbert, a task force member and co-author.

Black people, those living in poverty, people who have lost partners and those who have other mental health issues are among adults who face higher risks for developing anxiety, which can manifest as panic attacks, phobias or feeling always on edge.

These can easily be given in a primary care setting, the task force said, although it didn't specify how often patients should be screened.

The task force said there isn't enough solid research in older adults to recommend for or against anxiety screening in those aged 65 and up.

Guidelines from the task force often determine insurance coverage, but anxiety is already on the radar of many primary care doctors.