Association between depressive symptoms and prediabetes: NHANES 2007-2016 findings

The association between diabetes and depressive symptoms is well recognized. However, the impact of depressive symptoms on prediabetes remains unclear. This study aims to explore the specific correlation between depressive symptoms and prediabetes.

A total of 7467 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were included in this study, spanning five rounds of surveys conducted between 2007 and 2016. Weighted logistic regression was utilized to assess the relationship between depressive symptoms and prediabetes.

Compared with the normoglycemic population, individuals with prediabetes had a significantly higher probability of experiencing trouble sleeping (P = 0.020). After adjusting for non-glucose factors, there was no significant correlation between PHQ-9 and prediabetes; however, severe depressive symptoms were positively associated with abnormal fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels (OR = 1.093 [95 % CI 1.002, 1.192]). There was a positive correlation between trouble concentrating and FPG abnormalities (OR = 1.065 [95 % CI 1.004, 1.129]).

The cross-sectional design limits causal inference.

Individuals with depressive symptoms, especially severe cases, should be targeted for prediabetes prevention and management efforts. The diverse symptom presentations may have distinct impacts on glucose, necessitating personalized prevention and management strategies.