Detection of Depression among Low-Income Mexican Americans in Primary Care
Author: Shmaling, K.
Date Published: 2005
Between one and two thirds of depressive disorders go undetected in primary care settings. Four hundred ninety-six Mexican American primary care patients from high-poverty areas were screened for depressive symptoms, and 41% endorsed depressive symptoms. Eighty percent of screened patients with depressive symptoms agreed to structured diagnostic interviews and 90% of those interviewed met diagnostic criteria for one or more depressive disorders. More work is needed to enhance detection of depression in primary care, especially in minority populations.
Date Published: 2005
Between one and two thirds of depressive disorders go undetected in primary care settings. Four hundred ninety-six Mexican American primary care patients from high-poverty areas were screened for depressive symptoms, and 41% endorsed depressive symptoms. Eighty percent of screened patients with depressive symptoms agreed to structured diagnostic interviews and 90% of those interviewed met diagnostic criteria for one or more depressive disorders. More work is needed to enhance detection of depression in primary care, especially in minority populations.
