INVESTIGATING RATE OF DEPRESSION AND ASSOCIATED LIFESTYLE FACTORS IN RURAL COMMUNITIES

Background: Depression is a globally recognized public health concern and a major contributor to disability. Its burden is disproportionately higher in rural populations, largely due to socio-economic constraints, poor healthcare infrastructure, and environmental vulnerabilities. In regions like rural Sindh, Pakistan, where mental health services are scarce and awareness remains low, understanding the prevalence and contributing lifestyle factors of depression is essential for informed intervention planning and public health policy. Objective: To determine the prevalence of depression and examine the association of physical activity and dietary patterns with depression among adults in rural communities of Sindh, Pakistan. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to March 2025 among 500 adult residents (aged ≥18 years) across 20 randomly selected rural villages in Tharparkar, Sindh. Cluster sampling was used for village selection, followed by random household sampling. Data were collected through structured face-to-face interviews using validated tools: PHQ-9 for depression assessment, GPAQ for physical activity levels, and a culturally adapted FFQ for dietary patterns. Sociodemographic data were also recorded. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 26. Chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression were used to identify statistically significant associations. Results: Out of 500 participants, 495 completed the survey (response rate: 99%). Depression was present in 208 individuals (42%), with 125 (25%) having mild, 50 (10%) moderate, and 33 (7%) severe symptoms. Depression prevalence was 41% among those with low physical activity, 35% with moderate, and 24% with high activity levels. Participants with poor dietary habits had a 62% depression rate compared to 38% among those with balanced diets. Conclusion: The study revealed a high burden of depression in rural Sindh and identified low physical activity and poor diet as significant lifestyle risk factors. Community-level interventions focusing on behavioral modification could help reduce the mental health burden in underserved areas.