Evaluation of depression and anxiety in patients with thalassemia: a comparative study

Background: More studies in the field of thalassemia patients focus on medical treatment and less attention to the psychosocial problems aspect. Objective: The aim of this study was evaluation of depression and anxiety in these patients in Qazvin province. Methods: This case-control study has been conducted in Qods Hospital of Qazvin (2016). The study population included thalassemia major patients and control group were participating in this study (n=147 in each group). All subjects completed the hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS). In addition to clinical history, socioeconomic and demographic characteristics of patients collected and analyzed using proper statistical methods independent t-test, chi-square test. Findings: Borderline abnormal (borderline case) and abnormal states of anxiety were reported 27.2% and 42.2% in case group compared with 22.4% and 6.8% in the control group (P<0.001). In addition, borderline and abnormal states of depression were significantly different in the case group than the control group (respectively 20.4% and 59.2% vs 24.5% and 12.9%, P<0.001). Among patients with thalassemia, depression and anxiety scores significantly were associated with non-compliance and iron chelation, marital status (single) and socioeconomic state (P<0.001). In addition, Moreover, in terms of depression individuals with diabetes, headaches and skin disorders significantly were higher scores of depression and in terms of anxiety individuals with low back pain, headaches and skin disorders were higher scores. Conclusion: The prevalence of depression and anxiety in patients with thalassemia is considerable and related to socioeconomic and demographic characteristics, so it is essential that psychiatric consultation systems created in thalassemia clinics of Qazvin province.