A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study on Assessment of Depression in Cardiac Patients

Fahad O Alatawi1, Yazid M Albalawi1, Nawaf A Alzahrani1

  • 1Pharm. D Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.

Insights

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a major health concern in Saudi Arabia. This study found a high prevalence of depression in cardiac patients, highlighting the need for integrated mental health care.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Psychiatry
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of mortality in Saudi Arabia.
  • Depression significantly complicates the management of CVDs, impacting patient outcomes.
  • Assessing depression in cardiac patients is crucial for comprehensive care.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of depression among patients diagnosed with cardiovascular diseases in Saudi Arabia.
  • To understand the mental health burden associated with cardiac conditions in the region.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional observational study involving 257 cardiac patients.
  • Data collected from two governmental hospitals in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia (December 2021 - April 2022).
  • Depression assessed using the Arabic version of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale Revised (CESD-R) questionnaire.

Main Results:

  • The average participant age was 44.49 ± 12.99 years, with the 40-49 age group being the largest (35.8%).
  • Over half of the participants were female (53.3%).
  • A significant prevalence of depression was observed in 53.3% of cardiac patients.

Conclusions:

  • The high prevalence of depression in cardiac patients necessitates routine screening and management.
  • Integrating depression assessment and treatment into cardiovascular care is strongly recommended.
  • This study underscores the importance of addressing mental health comorbidities in cardiovascular disease management.
Abstract

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