Edward K Mbewe1, Leana R Uys, Gretchen L Birbeck. 1. Chainama College of Health Sciences. Department of Mental Health and Clinical Psychiatry, P.O. Box 30043, Lusaka, Zambia. kondwelanimbewe@yahoo.com
Abstract
PURPOSE: Among the 50 million people with epilepsy (PWE) worldwide ∼15 to 60% likely also suffer from depression and/or anxiety and 80% reside in low-income regions where human and technological resources for care are extremely limited. METHODS: In Zambia, we carried out a retrospective chart review of 200 randomly selected files ofPWE using a structured abstraction form to systematically collect socio-demographic data and clinical details on the detection and treatment of depression and/or anxiety. RESULTS: Only 2 PWE (1%) had depression diagnosed and none were given a diagnosis of an anxiety disorder. Complaints suggestive of underlying depressive and/or anxiety disorders were documented in 120 (60%), but no diagnoses were made and no referrals, investigations or treatment were offered. CONCLUSIONS: Further research is required to establish the prevalence of depression and anxiety among PWE in sub-Saharan Africa and efforts are needed to improve screening and treatment for common, treatable psychiatric comorbidities in PWE in resource limited settings.
RCT Entities:
PURPOSE: Among the 50 million people with epilepsy (PWE) worldwide ∼15 to 60% likely also suffer from depression and/or anxiety and 80% reside in low-income regions where human and technological resources for care are extremely limited. METHODS: In Zambia, we carried out a retrospective chart review of 200 randomly selected files of PWE using a structured abstraction form to systematically collect socio-demographic data and clinical details on the detection and treatment of depression and/or anxiety. RESULTS: Only 2 PWE (1%) had depression diagnosed and none were given a diagnosis of an anxiety disorder. Complaints suggestive of underlying depressive and/or anxiety disorders were documented in 120 (60%), but no diagnoses were made and no referrals, investigations or treatment were offered. CONCLUSIONS: Further research is required to establish the prevalence of depression and anxiety among PWE in sub-Saharan Africa and efforts are needed to improve screening and treatment for common, treatable psychiatric comorbidities in PWE in resource limited settings.
Authors: David E Friedman; Doris H Kung; Somchai Laowattana; Joseph S Kass; Richard A Hrachovy; Harvey S Levin Journal: Seizure Date: 2009-05-05 Impact factor: 3.184