Depression Hits Some Ethnic Groups Harder Than Others

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Depression Hits Some Ethnic Groups Harder Than Others

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is particularly prevalent in seniors and specific ethnic groups, new research suggests.

A survey study of almost 2000 adults older than 49 years showed adjusted rates of nearly 1 in 4 of the white participants having experienced symptoms of MDD at least once.

In addition, 23% of the black Caribbean participants had experienced at least 1 episode of MDD in their lifetime, and 15% had experienced MDD in the past year vs 17% and 7%, respectively, of the African-American participants.

The Caribbean men also reported significantly higher rates of MDD than Caribbean women.

It is clear that major depression is a significant public health issue among older people.

Although the study did not evaluate why the rates of MDD were so different between the 2 black groups, it could be because of issues such as negative immigration experiences, being separated from family and friends, and adapting to a new culture.

This data shows that black Caribbeans and African-Americans are not as similar as one may think, and when we’re thinking about diagnoses and treatment, we shouldn’t lump them together.

Lower Rates for African-Americans

According to the researchers, more than 3 million black Caribbean individuals have immigrated to the United States — a figure that has doubled in the past decade. However, studies examining this patient population are sparse.

The investigators note that this figure “runs counter to other ethnic groups,” such as whites and African-Americans, in which women more often report having MDD than men.

The most common physical disorder among older adults with MDD was high blood pressure, followed by arthritis, ulcers, and asthma.

In addition, “differences among older Blacks highlight the need for further research on this population to ensure appropriate treatment is being provided,” they add.

Depress Anxiety. 2013;30:589-597. Abstract

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