Depression is a common mental illness worldwide, affecting an estimated 3.8% of the global population, with a prevalence of approximately 5.7% among adults aged 60 years and older, according to the WHO.
This study aimed to explore the connection between anemia and depression in older adults, and whether treating anemia influences this relationship.
This secondary data analysis uses information from the Enquête sur la santé des aînés (ESA)‐Services study, which includes a convenience sample of 1,811 French‐speaking adults aged 65 and older, recruited through primary care. Anemia and depression (both major and minor, based on DSM‐5 symptom criteria) were self‐reported by participants. Treated anemia was determined based on whether medications had been delivered to participants.
The results showed that 6.7% of participants reported having anemia, and self‐reported anemia was associated with higher odds of experiencing depression. Specifically, those with untreated anemia had 2.6 times increased odds of depression compared to individuals without anemia. In contrast, the odds of depression in individuals with treated anemia were not significantly different from those without anemia.
Key Takeaways:
The findings emphasize the importance of identifying and treating anemia in older adults—not just for physical health, but also for mental well-being.
That’s when our hematology solutions at HemoCue play a vital role — enabling fast, reliable hemoglobin testing at the point of care to support early detection, timely treatment, and better patient outcomes.
Read the full publication here:
The association between anemia and depression in older adults and the role of treating anemia.
References:
Ahmed T, Lamoureux-Lamarche C, Berbiche D, Vasiliadis HM.
Brain Behav. 2023 May;13(5):e2973.
