Depression and Anxiety and Its Associated Factors among People with Non -Communicable Diseases Attending Divisional Hospital Thalangama, Sri Lanka

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),