Prevalence of undiagnosed depression among patients with hypertension: A cross-sectional study of Malaysian primary care perspective

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of suspected depression and its associated factors among patients with hypertension in a Malaysian primary care clinic.

METHOD: This cross-sectional study was conducted in a primary care clinic from 1 June to 31 August 2019 using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9.

RESULTS: The prevalence of suspected depression was 9.0%. The significant predictors of depression were Indian ethnicity (adjusted odd ratio [AOR]: 2.373; confidence interval [CI]: 1.147-4.907), divorce (AOR: 3.5; CI: 1.243-9.860), singleness (AOR: 2.241; CI: 1.182-4.251), heavy episodic drinking (AOR: 7.343; CI: 2.494-21.624), low physical activity level (AOR: 1.921; CI: 1.0932.274), low fibre intake (AOR: 1.836; CI: 1.061-3.178), uncontrolled blood pressure (AOR: 1.800; CI: 1.134-2.858) and presence of hypertension complications (AOR: 3.263; CI: 2.053-5.185).

CONCLUSION: Primary health care providers must screen for depression among patients with hypertension, particularly those within high-risk groups, and implement interventions that address modifiable risk factors.