Morning Salivary Cortisol Has a Positive Correlation with GAD-7 Scores in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are chronic inflammatory conditions of the gastrointestinal tract, comprising ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD). Earlier onset of IBD symptoms has been linked to a higher prevalence of depression and anxiety. Evidence supports that cortisol abnormalities correlate with the development and severity of autoimmune diseases. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the correlation of morning salivary cortisol levels with self-reported mood (depression and anxiety) and quality of life in patients with IBD.