Prevalence and Determinants of Depression Among the Patients with Sickle Cell Disease: Pilot Study

Abstract : Background: Depression and its determinants among the patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) is a complicated issue in low resource setting like Nepal. The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of depression and its determinants among the patients with SCD in community. Methods: A cross sectional study based on community setting was conducted among randomlyselected 40 patients. Bio-psycho-socialmodel was taken to understand the phenomena of depression and its determinants. Validated nepali version Beck Depression Inventory(BDI) was used to determine prevalence of depression among patients with SCD. Standard questionnaires, Rosenberg self-esteem scale and Multidimensional scale of Perceived Social support (MSPSS) were used to identify determinants of depression. Results: Prevalence of depression among patients with SCD was found 32.5%, in which5% had severe depression using BDI scale. Depression was found associated with average family income, blood transfusion, self-esteem, difficulties for access to specialized doctor, and means of transportation amongthe patients. Conclusion: One out of three patients with SCD are suffering from depression. Biological, psychological and social factors were the contributing factors for developing depression among people with SCD. Hence, it is therefore important to assess and treat depression among all patients with sickle cell disease to improve their mental and overall health. The validated tools were used for further study also.