Prevalence of Depression among Sudanese Patients with type-2 Diabetes Mellitus

Background: Both diabetes mellitus and depression are common disorders, and when coexist; they lead to poor glycemic control that may ultimately increase the risk of both micro and macrovascular complications. In Sudan, few data are available regarding prevalence of depression among subjects with type -2 diabetes mellitus. Objectives: The aim of the study is to determine the prevalence of depression among Sudanese patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study, carried out among Sudanese patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus who attended medical insurance clinic in Omdurman. The patients gave consent and HADS questionnaire was filled. Results: The study enrolled 400 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, 176 (44%) of them had depression. Among those with depression, 52.3% had mild depression, 29.5% and 18.2% of them, had severe and moderate depression, respectively. Sixty three percent of the study group were female. Their ages range from 30-79 years with a mean of 56.6 +/- 13.The average duration of diabetes was 10.3 years. 76% of patients were physically inactive and 16 (4%) of them were smokers. Fifty six (14%) had family history of psychiatric disorders, 170 (42.5%) of them showed lack of enjoyment, 77 (19.3%) of them lacked laughing, 81(20.3%) of them lost sensation of happiness, 68(17%) of them lost energy, 238 (59.5%) of them neglected their external appearance, 76 (19%) of them showed no enjoyment, and 62 (15.5%) of them lost enjoying reading or watching television. Conclusion: Depression is common among Sudanese patients with type -2 diabetes mellitus, therefore screening for depression should be part of routine clinical evaluation of these patients.