Coexistence of non-communicable diseases and mental illnesses among persons in two (2) Jamaican hospitals

Abstract

Background: One of the major contributors to the NCDs burden is mental health disorders, however the burden has been underestimated because the links between mental health and other health conditions are not well understood (Murray, 2012). Mental illness is a risk factor for NCD; its presence increases the chance that an individual will also suffer from one or more chronic illnesses. Additionally, individuals with mental health conditions are less likely to seek help for NCD and symptoms may affect adherence to treatment as well as prognosis [(Druss & Walker, 2011), (Prince et. al., 2007)]. Methods: This study utilised a mixed method approach with a descriptive cross-sectional design for the quantitative segment of the data which included the distribution, collection, and analysis of the survey tools. A narrative approach was employed to collect qualitative data using content analysis of the psychiatric patients’ dockets to assess the coexistence of NCDs to assemble information on the screening practices of health professionals. Results: This study showed high prevalence of mental disorders (depression and/or GAD) among chronically ill patients (diabetic and/or hypertensive) of 57.3%. This result is agreeing with what WHO/WONCA reported regarding the prevalence of mental health problems in public hospital care of 60%.