Depression in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and its Relation with Complications of Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-sectional Study in Central India

Abstract Background: The prevalence of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and depression has witnessed a steep rise. The relationship between these two conditions has been mostly studied in Western countries. The existing literature indicates that depression is more common in T2DM. However, data regarding its association with clinical profile of diabetes is conflicting. Despite the extensive occurrence of T2DM and depression in India, research on their association is limited. Aims and Objectives: To study the prevalence of depression and its association with complications of T2DM among inpatients of T2DM in a tertiary care center in Central India. Materials and Methods: Inpatients department of Medicine was taken as study site and 120 inpatients of T2DM aged 18 to 65 years were recruited after applying strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. They were assessed for depression using structured interview and ICD-10 criteria. The severity was assessed by HAMD-17 (Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression). The complications of diabetes were assessed. Results: The prevalence of depression in T2DM patients was 24.2% (29 cases) among which mild depression was present in 62.1% cases. There was a significant positive association (p<0.05) between depression and socio-demographic variables of age, female gender, rural habitat and lower socio-economic status. There was a significant positive association between depression and duration of diabetes, BMI, serum triglyceride, serum creatinine and a significant negative association with serum HDL. Depression had a significant positive association with nephropathy and Coronary Artery Disease (CAD). Conclusion: The prevalence of depression is higher in T2DM as compared to normal population and is significantly associated with nephropathy and coronary artery disease. The findings highlight the need for timely screening of depression and integrated management approach.