Prevalence and Predictors of Depression among Tuberculosis Patients in Kano, North-West Nigeria

Abstract

Background: The magnitude of depression as comorbidity militating against a positive outcome in the management of tuberculosis (TB)
patients in northern Nigeria is largely unknown. This study assessed the magnitude of depression and its predictors among TB patients in
Kano metropolis, northern Nigeria.

Materials and Methods: A cross-section of 325 TB patients attending directly observed treatment, short-course (DOTS) clinics in Kano metropolis were studied using a pro forma and the Patient Health Questionnaire‑9, which obtained information on depression. Data were analyzed using SPSS v. 21.0.

Results: Among the 325 respondents, the prevalence of depression was 48.6% (n = 158). Of those who were depressed, the majority had the mild form (n = 120; 75.9%). The predictors of depression were: the age group <30 years, (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.33, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.14–0.85), being HIV negative (aOR = 0.34, 95% CI = 0.15–0.64), persistence of TB symptoms (aOR = 3.58, 95% CI = 1.92–6.90), presence of side effects of anti‑TB drugs (aOR = 2.11, 95% CI = 1.46–5.99), and smoking cigarette (aOR = 3.49, 95% CI = 1.22–9.81).

Conclusion: The prevalence of comorbid depression among TB patients is high. Achieving cure and preventing undesirable treatment outcomes in this region would involve a holistic approach that considers the interplay of patient’s behavioral, social, and medical factors.

Keywords: Depression, patients, predictors, prevalence, tuberculosis