Prevalence and Predictors of Anxiety and Depression in Indian Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

Background: Numerous investigations indicate the presence of a reciprocal association between type 2 diabetes (T2D) and a range of mental health conditions. However, research on the factors that contribute to depression and anxiety in T2D patients in India is scarce. Purpose: The present study aims to identify the prevalence and predictors of depression and anxiety in patients with T2D in India. Methods: A cross-sectional study that included 2,730 patients with T2D was conducted at the Freedom from Diabetes Clinic in Pune, India. Anxiety and depression were measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and Generalized Anxiety Disorders-7 (GAD-7) Scale. Binary logistic regression was applied to identify the factors predicting anxiety and depression. Results: The prevalence of depression and anxiety were 20.3% and 17.3%, respectively. The major predictors of anxiety and depression were female gender, obesity, unmarried marital status, poor glycaemic control and the presence of comorbid conditions. Conclusion: This study’s findings highlight a significant prevalence of depression and anxiety among patients with T2D in India, with key predictors including gender, obesity, marital status, glycaemic control and comorbid conditions. These findings highlight the critical need for integrated mental health support in routine diabetes care to manage depression and anxiety.