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Antiretroviral Therapy Initiation and Changes in Self-Reported Depression
Ellen F Eaton1, Ronnie M Gravett2, Ashutosh R Tamhane1
1Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease and.
Summary
Depression scores significantly decreased in people with HIV (PLWH) starting antiretroviral therapy. Baseline depression and lack of insurance predicted higher depression at 12 months.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Mental Health Research
Background:
- Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is crucial for managing Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).
- Depression is a common comorbidity in people living with HIV (PLWH).
- Understanding factors influencing depression during ART initiation is vital for comprehensive care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate changes in depression scores among treatment-naive PLWH initiating ART.
- To identify predictors of depression at 12 months of ART.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study design.
- Analysis of Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) depression scores at baseline and 12 months post-ART initiation.
- Statistical analysis to determine associations between baseline factors and 12-month depression.
Main Results:
- Significantly lower PHQ-9 depression scores at 12 months compared to baseline (median 3.0 vs. 6.0, P < .001).
- Higher baseline depression scores were associated with greater depression at 12 months.
- Lack of insurance was also associated with higher depression at 12 months.
- Receipt of efavirenz-based ART was not associated with 12-month depression levels.
Conclusions:
- ART initiation is associated with a significant reduction in depressive symptoms in treatment-naive PLWH.
- Baseline depression and socioeconomic factors like insurance status are important considerations for ongoing mental health support.
- Further research into the impact of specific ART regimens on mental health may be warranted.