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Psychiatric status and 9-year mortality data in the New Haven Epidemiologic Catchment Area Study
M L Bruce1, P J Leaf, G P Rozal
1Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520-8034.
The American Journal of Psychiatry
|May 1, 1994
Summary
Certain psychiatric disorders, including major depression and alcohol abuse, significantly increase mortality risk in adults over 40. This highlights the broad impact of mental health conditions on community well-being.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Mental health disorders are prevalent in community samples.
- The long-term impact of psychiatric conditions on mortality is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between nine Axis I psychiatric disorders and mortality risk.
- To assess the 9-year mortality risk in a community sample of adults aged 40 and older.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the New Haven Epidemiologic Catchment Area study (n=3,560).
- Assessed psychiatric disorders using the Diagnostic Interview Schedule.
- Employed Cox proportional hazards models to estimate mortality risk.
Main Results:
- After 9 years, 33.5% of respondents had died.
- Major depression, alcohol abuse/dependence, and schizophrenia were associated with increased mortality risk, even after adjusting for age.
- The prevalence of depression and alcohol disorders was notably high.
Conclusions:
- Psychiatric disorders, particularly depression and alcohol-related conditions, are linked to adverse outcomes, including increased mortality.
- These findings underscore the significant public health implications of mental health disorders in community settings.