Prevalence of Depression in Patients with Thalassemia Major and Thalassemia Intermedia in Jahrom County

Thalassemia is a common genetic blood disorder that is chronic and is associated with a wide range of serious psychological and clinical challenges, affecting an individual's psychological well-being similar to other chronic illnesses. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of depression in patients with thalassemia major and thalassemia intermedia related to blood disorders.

In this cross-sectional descriptive study, 61 patients with thalassemia major and nine patients with thalassemia intermedia from Jahrom city participated in the year 2019. Data collection tools included a demographic information questionnaire and the Beck Depression Inventory. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 16, and descriptive and analytical statistics were applied.

The prevalence of depression in patients with thalassemia major was 42.6%. Eight individuals (1.13%) had mild depression, 13 individuals (3.21%) had moderate depression, and five individuals (2.8%) had severe depression. The average depression score did not differ between male and female thalassemia major patients (P > 0.05). This average score was 53.9 ±17.52 for patients with below diploma education, 29.7 ± 11.92 for diploma holders, and 51.3 ± 4.51 for bachelor's degree holders (P < 0.05). Additionally, the prevalence of depression in patients with blood-related intermediate thalassemia was 33.3%. Mild depression was present in 2.22%, and severe depression in 1.11% of these patients.

The prevalence of depression in patients with thalassemia major is higher than in those with thalassemia intermedia. It is recommended that healthcare and psychological services for patients with thalassemia major and intermedia be designed to improve their quality of life and reduce depression. Furthermore, providing education and increasing awareness about depression management and the importance of social support for these patients can be effective.