Depression among hemodialysis patients: a cross-sectional study in southeast of Iran

Background and aims: Mental disorders may negatively affect on the quality of life in hemodialysis patients and their response to treatment. The aim of present study was to examine the prevalence of depression and related risk factors in hemodialysis patients. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, during June 2013 to September 2013, 217 patients with hemodialysis whom were admitted to Kerman hemodialysis center were examined.  The depression level of patients was assessed using Iranian version of Beck Depression Inventory. Results: The mean score of depression was 24.2±12.6 (range: from 2-59). Totally, 29%, 30% and 27.4% were reported as suffering from mild, moderate and severe level of depression, respectively. The results of the present study also showed that diabetic patients and patients with hypertension were significantly at a higher risk of depression. Conclusion: Results of the present study indicates that depression is highly prevalent in hemodialysis patients. It is important that all patients with maintenance hemodialysis be frequently screened for signs and symptoms of psychiatric disorders such as depression.