Prevalence of Depression and Suicidality Among Children and Adolescents with Sickle Cell Anaemia in Eastern Uganda

Depression and suicidality are prevalent among individuals with chronic illnesses. Data on their prevalence in children and adolescents with sickle cell anaemia in Uganda is limited. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of depression and suicidality among children with SCA in Eastern Uganda.

We consecutively enrolled children with SCA between 9 and 17 years, at Mbale Regional Referral Hospital between 01/02/2024 and 05/06/2024. Depression and suicidality were measured using the MINI KID. Data were collected using an interviewer administered questionnaire and entered into KoboToolbox for electronic data management. Analysis was performed using Stata 17. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were done to examine factors associated with depression and suicidality.Statistical significance was assessed at the 0.05.

421 participants were enrolled, the prevalence of depression was 31.8%, while suicidality was 19.0%. The Factors associated with depression, were secondary level of education (AOR: 3.5, 95% CI: 1.965-12.756; p = 0.049), Children with formally employed parents or guardians (AOR: 3.3, 95% CI:1.399-7.675, P = 0.006), Household income over 150,000 Uganda Shillings monthly (AOR: 0.3, 95% CI: 0.126-0.937, p = 0.037), 5-10 past year admissions (AOR:3.1, 95% CI: 1.651-5.749, p < 0.001). For suicidality,being aged 13-17 years (AOR:2.3, 95% CI:1.398-3.809, p = 0.001), Medication side effects (AOR:1.6, 95% CI:1.105-6.121; p = 0.039).

1 in 3 children aged 9-17 years were depressed. Older children and adolescents living with SCA had a higher risk of depression and suicidality. Findings highlight the magnitude of mental health challenges,and underline the need for integrated mental health screening within chronic disease management.