OBJECTIVES: This study aims to estimate and compare quality of life and productivity loss among three chronic and prevalent conditions. METHODS: Retrospective secondary database analysis using Medical Expenditure Panel Survey data from years 2000 - 2003 was conducted. Patients identified using the 3-digit ICD-9 codes: diabetes(250) depression(311) and anxiety(300). QOL was measured using EQ-5D & productivity measured using absenteeism data. RESULTS: A total of 12,858 patients were identified, 11% of patients had two or more of the conditions studied. About 17% of diabetes patients had an EQ-5D index score of <0.30, compared to 20% each on depression and anxiety. All 3 conditions had significant impact on patient's overall QOL (p<0.001). Mean EQ 5D index for diabetes was 0.65 (95% CI 0.64-0.66), depression - 0.62 (95% CI 0.61-0.63), and anxiety - 0.62 (95% CI 0.61-0.64). More number of patients with depression and anxiety missed work (21%) and stayed in bed (17%) due to illness compared to diabetes patients (12% and 9% respectively), but the mean days diabetes patients missed work was higher - 12.15 (95% CI 10.38-13.92) compared to anxiety - 9.39 (95% CI 7.8-10.89) and depression - 8.88 (95% CI 7.79-9.96) CONCLUSIONS: All three conditions were found to have a significant negative impact on patient's QoL and productivity. Our research indicates that anxiety and depression inflict similar disease burden compared to diabetes on patient. Future research should focus on reducing this burden.