Abstract
ObjectiveDepression is common in women with much research focusing on hormonal changes and menopausal symptoms but with little exploration of psychosocial problems in midlife. This study investigates the prevalence of clinically relevant depressive symptoms in midlife Chinese women and its association with psychosocial factors.MethodsA cross-sectional, community-based household survey of women aged 45 to 64 years of age was conducted in Hong Kong from September 2010 to March 2011. The structured questionnaire included demographic data, educational status, marital status and household income, as well as perceived current stressful events and significant life events in the past 12 months. Information on clinically relevant depressive symptoms was measured by the validated chinese Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9).ResultsA total of 402 participants were recruited in the study period. Of the 393 women who completed the questionnaire, the prevalence of clinically relevant depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 score≧10) was 11.0%. In multiple regression analysis, being single/divorced/separated/widowed, having an educational level of primary school level or below, having multiple chronic diseases, loss of hobby or loss of close social support in the past 12 months in midlife were associated with clinically relevant depressive symptoms.ConclusionsCorrelates of clinically relevant depressive symptoms in midlife Chinese women can be used to identify those at increased risk and potentiate further studies to explore early psychosocial and community interventions.
Highlights
Women and depression According to the World Health Organization [1], by the year 2020 depression will be the second most significant condition globally in terms of disability-adjusted life years lost
The lifetime prevalence of major depression ranges from 6–17% [2] and studies have consistently shown dysthymia, minor depression, brief recurrent depression and major depression to be more common in women compared to men
A large, epidemiologically based study conducted in the US noted differences in psychological and vasomotor symptoms between caucasian and chinese midlife women
Summary
Women and depression According to the World Health Organization [1], by the year 2020 depression will be the second most significant condition globally in terms of disability-adjusted life years lost. The lifetime prevalence of major depression ranges from 6–17% [2] and studies have consistently shown dysthymia, minor depression, brief recurrent depression and major depression to be more common in women compared to men The prevalence of these conditions in women can range from 1.5 to 3 times to that of men [3,4] and such differences may be consistent across life stages as women show higher rates of depression from the age range 11–15 to midlife [5]. Symptoms of muscle and joint pain, and psychological symptoms such as lack of concentration, irritability, insomnia were more prevalent than vasomotor symptoms in Chinese women [9]. These findings were consistent with local and regional studies [10,11,12]. A stratified household interview approach was selected to investigate the prevalence and psychosocial correlates of clinically relevant depressive symptoms in midlife women living within urban communities of Hong Kong
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