Determinants of depressive symptom trajectories in self-reported chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients

The depressive symptom trajectories of COPD individuals and its' predictors remain to be established. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the trajectories of depressive symptoms and predictors thereof in COPD patients.

A total of 1286 individuals over 45 years of age with self-reported COPD were assessed. Depressive symptoms were evaluated using the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale short form, with depressive symptom trajectories being identified via latent class growth analysis. The predictors of depressive symptom trajectories were then identified through multinomial logistic regression.

Finally, three depressive symptom trajectories were identified: "steadily high", "consistently moderate", and "consistently low". Old age, longer night-time sleep duration, and high BMI were found to be associated with individuals being classified under the "consistently moderate" trajectory. Moreover, participants exhibiting more than two chronic conditions were more likely to be classified under the "consistently moderate" trajectory. Higher education and lower hand grip strength were important predictors of individuals classified in the "steadily high" trajectory.

To conclude, three depressive symptom trajectories were identified in self-reported COPD individuals. To ensure timely intervention aimed at preventing the worsening of depressive symptom progression among COPD individuals, health-care workers should regular analyze depressive symptoms and provide appropriate interventions when possible.