Association of back pain with major depressive disorder among older adults in six low- and middle-income countries: A cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Back pain is one of the leading causes of disability and decreased quality of life. In this study, we examined the association between back pain and major depressive disorder (MDD) in six low- and middle-income countries. We also examined the association of back pain duration and severity with MDD among middle-aged and older adults in these countries. Nationally representative data from the World Health Organization's Study on global AGEing and adult health (WHO-SAGE) consisting of 33,878 middle-aged and older adults aged 50years or above were analysed. The linkages of back pain, pain duration and severity with MDD were examined using multivariable logistic regression analyses. Across six countries, the prevalence of MDD was higher among middle-aged and older adults who reported back pain than those who did not report back pain (14.5% vs 4.5%). In the pooled data, middle-aged and older adults who suffered from back pain had higher odds of depression [adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 2.41, confidence interval (CI): 2.19-2.64] compared to those with no back pain. Particularly, the association was stronger in Ghana [aOR: 4.78] and South Africa [aOR: 2.42]. Further, the association was stronger for those who experienced back pain for >2weeks as well as those who reported severe and extreme back pain than those with no back pain across all the countries. In this study, the association of back pain and its duration and severity with MDD is consistent and significant among middle-aged and older adults in six countries. Government policies should consider the role of back pain in improving the mental health of middle-aged and older adults.