Prevalence and Risk Factors for Self-Reported Postpartum Depression Symptoms (SRPDS) in Hawai'i, 2012-2015

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Maternal Health
• Mental Health Research

Background:

• Postpartum depression (PPD) affects 10-20% of US women, yet risk factors in Hawai'i remain understudied.
• Identifying ethnic and demographic disparities in PPD is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify risk factors for postpartum depression (PPD) in Hawai'i.
• To examine ethnic and demographic disparities in PPD prevalence within Hawai'i.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of aggregated 2012-2015 Hawai'i Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) data from 5572 women.
• Utilized two PRAMS questions to create a Self-Reported Postpartum Depression Symptoms (SRPDS) measure.
• Multivariate generalized logit analysis adjusted for covariates including intimate partner violence (IPV), prenatal anxiety, and stressful life events (SLEs).

Main Results:

• Approximately 10.0% of women reported SRPDS and 27.7% reported possible SRPDS.
• SRPDS was significantly more prevalent among Native Hawaiians, Filipinos, Japanese, and other Pacific Islanders compared to white women.
• Risk factors for SRPDS included intimate partner violence (IPV), prenatal anxiety, prenatal depression, and illicit drug use before pregnancy. Younger maternal age was associated with lower risk.

Conclusions:

• Significant ethnic disparities in PPD risk exist in Hawai'i, with minority ethnic groups showing higher prevalence.
• IPV, prenatal mental health issues, substance use, and stressful life events are key risk factors for PPD in this population.
• Findings underscore the need for culturally sensitive clinical screening and follow-up for high-risk women in Hawai'i.