Birth factors and common mental health problems in young adults: a population-based study in North Staffordshire

Birth-related factors have been associated with adult chronic disease. Whilst the potential association between these factors and depression in adulthood was been described rather less is known about the role of these exposures in the development of anxiety.

Cross-sectional population-based survey recruited adults aged 18-25 years. Participants were classified on the basis of responses to the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Birth-related exposures were determined by hospital medical record review. A proportional odds model was used to assess associations between birth factors and anxiety and depression.

No significant associations were found between birth factors and anxiety. Significant associations were found between depression with low birth weight (odds ratio 2.88, 95% confidence interval 1.26-6.59) and neonatal admission to ITU (3.12, 1.25, 7.78).

Low birth weight and neonatal intensive care unit admission are significantly associated with depression in adults. Other birth related variables were not significantly associated with either depression or anxiety.