Depression Is a Major Determinant of Functional Capacity in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Psychiatry
• Public Health

Background:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease impacting joints and quality of life.
• Depression is a common comorbidity in chronic illnesses, affecting patient outcomes.
• Understanding depression prevalence in RA patients is crucial for comprehensive care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of major depression among Argentinean patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
• To investigate the association between depression and sociodemographic and clinical factors in RA patients.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 258 adult RA patients in Argentina.
• Assessment of sociodemographic data, comorbidities, RA disease activity, and treatment.
• Utilized validated instruments including the Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) for depression assessment.

Main Results:

• The prevalence of major depression in the Argentinean RA cohort was 33.8%.
• Patients with major depression exhibited significantly worse functional capacity (HAQ-A) and quality of life (QOL-RA).
• Depression was independently associated with poorer functional capacity and quality of life, irrespective of disease activity.

Conclusions:

• A substantial proportion (one-third) of RA patients in this cohort suffer from major depression.
• Major depression in RA patients is strongly linked to diminished functional capacity and reduced quality of life.
• These findings highlight the need for integrated mental health screening and management in RA care.