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THE PREVALENCE AND SEVERITY OF DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS ASSOCIATED WITH HYPERGLYCEMIA AND BLOOD PRESSURE: INSIGHTS FROM ABBI COMMUNITY, DELTA STATE, NIGERIA
Abstract
This study examined the prevalence and severity of depressive symptoms associated with hyperglycemia and hypertension among residents of Abbi Community, Delta State, Nigeria. A quantitative survey research design was employed, involving a sample of 20 participants selected through a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency distribution, mean, and standard deviation. The findings revealed that hyperglycemia and hypertension were prevalent among the participants, with average blood sugar and blood pressure levels recorded at 157.65 mg/dL and 142.15 mmHg, respectively. The study also indicated that depressive symptoms were present among individuals diagnosed with hyperglycemia and hypertension, though the correlation between depressive symptoms and these medical conditions was weak and negative. However, socio-demographic factors such as age, gender, educational qualification, and occupation were found to influence the prevalence and severity of depressive symptoms. The results suggest that while hyperglycemia and hypertension may contribute to depressive symptoms, other socio-demographic factors may also play a significant role. The study concludes that addressing depressive symptoms in individuals with hyperglycemia and hypertension requires a holistic approach that considers both medical and socio-demographic factors. Based on these findings, it is recommended that healthcare providers in Abbi Community implement integrated health interventions focusing on both physical and mental health. Additionally, public health awareness campaigns should be initiated to educate individuals about the link between chronic health conditions and mental health. Further research with a larger sample size and consideration of additional variables is suggested to enhance the generalizability of the findings.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Depression, a common mental health disorder, significantly affects individuals’ overall well-being and quality of life. It is characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest in daily activities, and cognitive impairments. Globally, depression is a leading cause of disability, with severe impacts on social, economic, and health outcomes (Czeisler et al., 2020). In recent years, there has been increasing recognition of the relationship between physical health conditions and mental health disorders. Among the physical health conditions linked to depression, hyperglycemia and high blood pressure stand out as major contributors.
Hyperglycemia, defined as an abnormally high blood glucose level, is a common metabolic disorder, especially among individuals with diabetes mellitus. It can lead to complications such as neuropathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy (Wu et al., 2022). Similarly, hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a major cardiovascular risk factor that predisposes individuals to stroke, heart attack, and chronic kidney disease (Hajjar & Kotchen, 2023). The coexistence of hyperglycemia and hypertension, often observed in metabolic syndrome, can increase the risk of severe depressive symptoms (Nabi et al., 2021).
Recent studies have highlighted that hyperglycemia and hypertension not only elevate the risk of physical health complications but also contribute to the onset and severity of depressive symptoms. Chronic stress, poor glycemic control, and prolonged hypertension can impair brain function and promote neuroinflammation, thus leading to mood disturbances (Sandström et al., 2022). For instance, patients with hypertension are more likely to exhibit psychiatric comorbidities such as depression and anxiety, which further complicates the management of their physical health conditions (Axon, Zhao, & Egede, 2022).
Despite the growing body of research examining the link between depression and metabolic disorders, limited studies have focused on rural communities, particularly in Nigeria. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) has been instrumental in identifying the prevalence and risk factors associated with hypertension and depressive symptoms in the United States (CDC, n.d.; Patel et al., 2019). However, findings from high-income countries may not be fully applicable to low-resource settings where healthcare access is limited, and cultural perceptions about mental health differ significantly (Ryan, Trosclair, & Gfroerer, 2022).
In Abbi Community, Delta State, where economic challenges and limited healthcare access prevail, the prevalence and severity of depressive symptoms among individuals with hyperglycemia and hypertension remain underexplored. Existing studies have indicated that individuals with chronic illnesses such as hypertension and diabetes are more susceptible to developing depression (Ong et al., 2021; Giltay, Zitman, & Kromhout, 2024). Poor mental health not only affects individuals’ quality of life but also hinders effective management of their physical health conditions, further increasing the risk of complications (Crim et al., 2022).
Moreover, depression has been found to be associated with all-cause mortality and ischemic heart disease mortality in adults with hypertension, making it a significant public health concern (Axon, Zhao, & Egede, 2022). The interplay between mental and physical health emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to healthcare, particularly in underserved communities.
Understanding the intersection between these conditions is crucial for developing integrated healthcare interventions. Therefore, this study aims to assess the prevalence and severity of depressive symptoms associated with hyperglycemia and high blood pressure within Abbi Community. Such an investigation will provide valuable insights into the mental health burden faced by individuals with metabolic disorders in this rural setting, thereby informing policies and interventions aimed at improving health outcomes.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Despite the well-established association between depression, hyperglycemia, and hypertension in various populations globally (Axon et al., 2022; Nabi et al., 2021), there is a noticeable gap in the literature addressing this intersection within rural communities in Nigeria, particularly Abbi Community in Delta State. Prior studies have predominantly focused on urban populations with better healthcare access and facilities (Czeisler et al., 2020; Sandström et al., 2022). Moreover, most research efforts have been aimed at establishing general correlations rather than specifically examining the severity and prevalence of depressive symptoms in relation to hyperglycemia and high blood pressure.
Furthermore, previous studies have often failed to account for cultural, socio-economic, and healthcare accessibility factors that may influence depressive symptoms in rural areas (Rantanen et al., 2018; Yang et al., 2018). There is also insufficient evidence on how these conditions collectively impact individuals’ mental health in a rural Nigerian setting. While studies like those by Ong et al. (2021) and Cutler et al. (2022) have provided valuable insights into hypertension awareness and control, they do not address the potential mental health consequences of such conditions in marginalized communities.
Thus, the problem this study seeks to address is the lack of empirical data on the prevalence and severity of depressive symptoms associated with hyperglycemia and hypertension in Abbi Community. This research aims to fill this gap by providing data that could serve as a basis for developing effective, culturally-sensitive interventions tailored to the specific needs of the community.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of this study is to assess the prevalence and severity of depressive symptoms associated with hyperglycemia and hypertension in Abbi Community, Delta State, Nigeria. The specific objectives are as follows:
- To determine the prevalence of depressive symptoms among individuals diagnosed with hyperglycemia and hypertension in Abbi Community.
- To examine the severity of depressive symptoms associated with hyperglycemia and hypertension among the affected population.
- To identify socio-demographic factors that influence the prevalence and severity of depressive symptoms among individuals with hyperglycemia and hypertension.
1.4 Research Questions
The study will be guided by the following research questions:
- What is the prevalence of depressive symptoms among individuals diagnosed with hyperglycemia and hypertension in Abbi Community?
- What is the severity of depressive symptoms associated with hyperglycemia and hypertension among residents of Abbi Community?
- What socio-demographic factors influence the prevalence and severity of depressive symptoms among individuals with hyperglycemia and hypertension?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
To guide this study, the following hypotheses have been formulated:
- H0: There is no significant prevalence of depressive symptoms among individuals diagnosed with hyperglycemia and hypertension in Abbi Community.
H1: There is a significant prevalence of depressive symptoms among individuals diagnosed with hyperglycemia and hypertension in Abbi Community. - H0: Hyperglycemia and hypertension do not significantly influence the severity of depressive symptoms among residents of Abbi Community.
H1: Hyperglycemia and hypertension significantly influence the severity of depressive symptoms among residents of Abbi Community. - H0: Socio-demographic factors do not significantly affect the prevalence and severity of depressive symptoms among individuals with hyperglycemia and hypertension.
H1: Socio-demographic factors significantly affect the prevalence and severity of depressive symptoms among individuals with hyperglycemia and hypertension.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is significant for several reasons. The findings of this study will enhance the existing body of knowledge on the complex interplay between physical and mental health. By examining the relationship between hyperglycemia, hypertension, and depressive symptoms within a rural Nigerian context, particularly Abbi Community in Delta State, the study provides valuable insights into how chronic health conditions may influence mental health outcomes in underserved areas. The results of this study can guide policymakers and healthcare providers in understanding the importance of integrating mental health care into the routine management of chronic diseases, particularly hyperglycemia and hypertension. This is essential for developing more comprehensive healthcare policies that address mental health needs alongside physical health challenges, especially in rural settings where resources are limited. By identifying the prevalence and severity of depressive symptoms associated with hyperglycemia and hypertension, this research will help community health workers and caregivers to design and implement targeted mental health interventions. Such interventions can significantly improve the quality of life of affected individuals and contribute to the overall well-being of the community. This study will serve as a foundational reference for future research examining the relationship between chronic physical conditions and mental health disorders in rural communities. It will also highlight potential areas for further investigation and encourage more researchers to explore the intersection between physical and mental health in similar contexts.
1.7 Scope of the Study
This study will be conducted in Abbi Community, located in Delta State, Nigeria. The study population will consist of individuals diagnosed with hyperglycemia and hypertension who reside within the community. The study will focus on assessing the prevalence and severity of depressive symptoms associated with these conditions. Data will be collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using statistical techniques to determine correlations and causal relationships.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
To ensure clarity and consistency, the following terms are operationally defined:Depressive Symptoms: Emotional and behavioral manifestations of depression, including persistent sadness, loss of interest, fatigue, and cognitive impairments.
Hyperglycemia: A medical condition characterized by elevated levels of blood glucose, typically above 126 mg/dL when fasting.
Hypertension: A chronic condition marked by consistently high blood pressure readings, typically ≥140/90 mmHg.
Prevalence: The proportion of individuals within the study population who exhibit depressive symptoms associated with hyperglycemia and hypertension.
Severity: The intensity or degree of depressive symptoms, measured using a standardized depression scale.
Socio-Demographic Factors: Variables such as age, gender, marital status, educational level, and income that may influence the occurrence and severity of depressive symptoms.
Rural Community: A geographic area characterized by low population density and limited access to healthcare facilities, typical of Abbi Community.
Chronic Disease Management: Strategies and interventions aimed at controlling and managing long-term health conditions, including diabetes and hypertension.