According to first global research study on the health impact of depression, it is more harmful than chronic diseases like Angina, Arthritis, Asthma and Diabetes. This extensive research study was conducted by World Health Organisation. Undiagnosed and untreated depression will cause more damage than some major chronic diseases put together. Results of the research study were published in the September 8 issue of Lancet. WHO conducted this research study on 2, 50,000 persons across 60 countries.
Depression is a state of intense sadness, melancholia or despair that has advanced to the point of being disruptive to an individual’s social functioning and/or activities of daily living. It often leads to constant negative thinking and sometimes substance abuse.
People suffering from chronic diseases likely to be depressed and this depression disturb the mental and emotional aspect of patient life. Depressed patients less likely follow treatment regimen and may not consult doctor making the situation much worse.
Depression statistics:
1. 70% of depression cases are generally misdiagnosed or undiagnosed. These undiagnosed persons will suffer more health impacts than diagnosed ones.
2. 3.2% of people had experienced a depressive episode in the past year.
3. 9-23% of people had depression in addition to another chronic disease.
4. Less than 30% people are diagnosed and receive treatment while 70% misses diagnosis.
Depressive patients should take either pharmacological treatment (anti-depressants) or psychological treatment (cognitive behavioural therapy). Better treatment for depression would greatly improve people’s overall health especially if they have chronic illnesses.
This research study highlighted the urgent need for intensive care for depression patients. There should be more CME programmes for physicians on diagnosis and treatment of depression.
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