Abstract:
Background: Globally, the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is growing
relentlessly posing an immense threat to public healthcare service delivery by acting as a leading
cause of global morbidity and mortality. The prevalence is rapidly rising in low-and middle
income countries. Depression and anxiety are highly prevalent among people with chronic
diseases and may negatively impact disease management and health-related quality of life.
Objectives: To assess the level of depression and anxiety and its associated factors among people
with NCDs attending Divisional Hospital Thalangama, Sri Lanka
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was undertaken involving 400 patients with NCDs
attending NCDs Clinics at Divisional Hospital Thalangama. Previously validated Patient Health
Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and General Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) questionnaire were used to assess
depression and anxiety respectively and those questionnaires were validated to the Sri Lankan
population. Data were analysed using SPSS version 25.0.
Results: Mean(±SD) age was 63±10 years and the majority were female (56%), Sinhalese
(97.25%), married (94%), and educated up to primary education (73.5%). Commonly prevalent
NCDs included diabetes (69.3%), hypertension (84.3%), and hyperlipidemia (79.3%). The
majority reported a minimal level of depression (71.5%) and anxiety (79.8%). Mild levels of
depression and anxiety were reported by 21.3% and 17.8% respectively. Both depression and
anxiety level were associated with demographic characteristics such as age, education level,
religion, marital status, income level, use of alcohol, and exercise (p<0.05). Also, both depression
and anxiety were associated with diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia (p<0.05).
Conclusions: The majority of patients with NCDs shows minimal level of anxiety and depression.
Periodical studies are recommended to assess the level of anxiety and depression and their
associated factors among patients with NCDs. Strategies need to be improved to enhance mental
well-being of the patients with NCDs.
Keywords: Anxiety, General Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7), Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs),
