Prevalence of Depression Among Stroke Survivors: Racial-Ethnic Differences

Socioeconomic Differences in Patient Reported Outcome Measures 3 Months After Stroke: A Nationwide Swedish Register-Based Study

BACKGROUND

There is a well-known association between low socioeconomic status (SES), poor survival, and clinician-reported outcomes after stroke. We aimed to assess socioeconomic differences in Patient Reported Outcome Measures 3 months after stroke.

METHODS

This nationwide cohort study included patients registered with acute stroke in the Swedish Stroke Register 2015-2017. Patient Reported Outcome Measures included activities of daily living (mobility, toileting, and dressing), and poststroke symptoms (low mood, fatigue, pain, and poor general health). Information on SES prestroke was retrieved from Statistics Sweden and defined by a composite measure based on education and income tertiles. Associations between SES and Patient Reported Outcome Measures were analyzed using logistic regression adjusting for confounders (sex and age) and additionally for potential mediators (stroke type, severity, cardiovascular disease risk factors, and living alone). Subgroup analyses were performed for stroke type, men and women, and younger and older patients.

RESULTS

The study included 44 511 patients. Of these, 31.1% required assistance with mobility, 18% with toileting, and 22.2% with dressing 3 months after stroke. For poststroke symptoms, 12.3% reported low mood, 39.1% fatigue, and 22.7% pain often/constantly, while 21.4% rated their general health as poor/very poor. Adjusted for confounders, the odds of needing assistance with activities of daily living were highest for patients with low income and primary school education, for example, for mobility, odds ratio was 2.06 (95% CI, 1.89-2.24) compared with patients with high income and university education. For poststroke symptoms, odds of poor outcome were highest for patients with low income and university education (eg, odds ratio, 1.79 [95% CI, 1.49-2.15] for low mood). Adjustments for potential mediators attenuated but did not remove associations. The associations were similar in ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes and more pronounced in men and patients <65 years old.

CONCLUSIONS

There are substantial SES-related differences in Patient Reported Outcome Measures poststroke. The more severe outcome associated with low SES is more pronounced in men and in patients of working age.

Ethnic disparities in long-term outcomes and health care usage after stroke in the Netherlands

BACKGROUND

Poststroke health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is an important outcome that may be influenced by ethnicity.

OBJECTIVE

To compare long-term HRQOL, mental health and healthcare utilization between stroke survivors with a European (EUB) and non-European background (NEUB) in a hospital population.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study patients completed questionnaires 2-5 years after stroke. Assessments included the EuroQol-5D-3L (EQ-5D), Short Form (SF-36, with physical and mental component summary scales, PCS and MCS), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS; scores ≥8 indicate clinically relevant complaints) and a questionnaire on the usage of services from physicians and/or healthcare professionals (HCP) in the past 6 months. Linear and logistic regression analysis was used, adjusted for age, sex, level of education and functional outcome.

RESULTS

We included 207 patients (169 EUB, 38 NEUB); mean age 63.8 years (SD 14.4); 60.4 % male; mean follow up 36.3 months (SD 9.9). The EQ-5D and the PCS were higher in EUB versus NEUB patients (42.9 vs 35.4, p < 0.01; 0.76 vs 0.60, p < 0.01). The MCS showed a comparable, non-significant trend. The percentage of patients with HADS depression ≥8 was higher in NEUB patients versus EUB patients (54.3 % vs 29.8 %; p > 0.01). Significantly more NEUB patients had visited two or more physicians in the past six months compared to EUB patients (52.0 % vs 26.0 %; p = 0.01) whereas the use of services from HCP was similar.

CONCLUSIONS

NEUB stroke patients had worse outcomes regarding HRQOL and depressive symptoms compared to EUB patients. NEUB patients visited more physicians.

Risk of suicide among stroke survivors in the United States

BACKGROUND

Stroke is the largest cause of disability and the 5th leading cause of death in the United States. Suicide is the 12th leading cause of death in the United States. However, little is known about the risk of suicide among people with a prior stroke.

OBJECTIVES

Using Multiple Cause of Death data (1999-2020) from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention WONDER database, we examined via cross-sectional analysis the risk of suicide among survivors of stroke as compared to the general U.S. population and among subgroups within the United States.

METHODS

We assessed disparities in suicide rate among patients with stroke stratified by sex, race, urbanization levels, and census regions using the CDC WONDER multiple cause of death database. Standardized mortality rates were calculated to compare the suicide rate of stroke patients with the rates among demographic-matched cohorts and the general United States population.

RESULTS

As compared to the general population, stroke survivors had an elevated risk of suicide. Black stroke survivors had a lower rate of suicide as compared to the general population, while White stroke survivors and those in nonmetropolitan areas had an elevated risk compared to the general population.

CONCLUSION

There was a slightly elevated risk of suicide among people with a prior stroke in the United States. This risk may be elevated among White people and among people living in nonmetropolitan areas.

Investigating the Relationship Between Physical Activity Disparities and Health-Related Quality of Life Among Black People With Knee Osteoarthritis

INTRODUCTION

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, which is a leading cause of disability. Although no cure exists for knee OA, physical activity has been shown to improve functionality, which can improve an individual's health-related quality of life (HR-QOL). However, racial disparities exist in participating in physical activity, which can result in Black people with knee OA experiencing lower HR-QOL compared with their White counterparts. The purpose of this study was to investigate disparities of physical activity and related determinants, specifically pain and depression, and how these constructs explain why Black people with knee OA experience low HR-QOL.

METHODS

Data were from the Osteoarthritis Initiative, a multicenter longitudinal study that collected data from people with knee OA. The study used a serial mediation model to test whether a change in scores for pain, depression, and physical activity over 96 months mediated the effects between race and HR-QOL.

RESULTS

Analysis of variance models found Black race to be associated with high pain, depression, and lower physical activity and HR-QOL at baseline and month 96. The findings supported the prospective multi-mediation model, which found pain, depression, and physical activity to mediate between race and HR-QOL (β = -0.11, SE = 0.047; 95% CI, -0.203 to -0.016).

CONCLUSION

Disparities in pain, depression, and physical activity could explain why Black people with knee OA experience lower HR-QOL compared with their White counterparts. Future interventions should address sources of pain and depression disparities by improving health care delivery. Additionally, designing race- and culture-appropriate community physical activity programs would help to achieve physical activity equity.

Incidence of post-stroke depression symptoms and potential risk factors in adults with aphasia in a comprehensive stroke center

INTRODUCTION

Depression may be a frequent sequela after stroke, however, its incidence has rarely been reported. The likelihood of post-stroke depression (PSD) may relate to individual factors including the presence of aphasia, which also complicates PSD diagnosis. The current study's purpose was to investigate the incidence of PSD symptoms in adults with aphasia, compare it to the incidence of PSD symptoms in adults without aphasia, and to identify potential risk factors for developing PSD in adults with aphasia.

METHOD

Incidence proportions and relative risk were calculated using data compiled from 970 patient records at an urban tertiary care academic institution and comprehensive stroke center throughout the year of 2019. Focusing exclusively on adults with aphasia, the selected variables of age, gender, race, and aphasia severity were used to conduct logistic regression analyses to explore potential risk factors contributing to the development of PSD.

RESULTS

Adults with aphasia were 7.408 times more likely to exhibit PSD symptoms than adults without aphasia. Logistic regression controlling for the presence of aphasia showed a significant relationship between aphasia severity and post-stroke depression symptoms. Adults with aphasia were 2.06 times more likely to experience post-stroke depression symptoms with every 1-point increase in aphasia severity.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings align with earlier evidence identifying aphasia as a risk factor for experiencing PSD symptoms and also suggest aphasia severity is proportionate to the risk. This highlights the need for early identification of PSD symptoms in persons with aphasia in order to provide timely interventions.

Influence of chronic diseases on the occurrence of depression: A 13-year follow-up study from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe

The causal association between chronic diseases and depression remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the effects of types and number of chronic diseases on the risk of depression using data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE). A self-admitted questionnaire was used to obtain data on 14 predefined chronic diseases and the European-Depression Scale (EURO-D) was used to assess depression. Among the 16,080 baseline depression-free participants aged 50+, 31.29% (5032) developed depression over 13 years. Multivariate Cox regression models showed that individuals with any chronic diseases were at higher risk of new onset depression compared to disease-free participants. The risk of new onset depression increased with an increasing number of diseases among both younger (50-64) and older (65+) adults. Individuals with heart attack, stroke, diabetes, chronic lung disease, and arthritis were at increased risk of depression across age groups. However, some age-specific associations were observed, with cancer increasing depression risk among younger- and peptic ulcer, Parkinson's disease and cataracts increasing depression risk among older adults. These findings highlight the importance of managing chronic diseases, especially among those with more than two diseases, to prevent the development of depression among middle-aged and older adults.

Determinants of post-stroke depression among stroke survivors at University of Gondar Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia: a case-control study

BACKGROUND

Stroke is one of the most common causes of disability among adults. Post-stroke depression (PSD) is a frequent neuropsychiatric complication in stroke patients. Despite the increasing prevalence of stroke, there is a paucity of data on PSD and its determinants among stroke survivors in developing countries like Ethiopia. We aim to assess the factors associated with PSD in survivors of stroke.

METHOD

A hospital-based unmatched case-control study was conducted during the period of February to July 2020 at University of Gondar Hospital among stroke survivors. Study subjects were recruited consecutively. Socio-demographic and clinical data were obtained from patients' interviews and medical record reviews. A diagnosis of PSD was made using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). EpiData version 3.1 was used to enter data, and SPSS version 26 was used to analyze it. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were fitted to identify associated variables. The adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) and p-value 0.05 were used to determine the significance of the association.

RESULT

A total of 240 stroke survivors were included in the study (80 cases and 160 controls). The mean age was 60.8 years (SD ± 14.3) with an equal sex distribution. Variables statistically associated with PSD were male gender (AOR = 3.5, 95% CI: 1.64-7.46 C, P-value = 0.001), subcortical location of the largest lesion (AOR = 2.42, 95% CI: 1.06-5.56, p-value = 0.036), severity of the stroke (AOR = 52.34, 95% CI:10.64-256.87, p-value = 0.000), physical disability (AOR = 5.85. 95% CI:1.94-17.65, p-value = 0.002), previous history of stroke or transient ischemic attack (AOR = 5.90, 95% CI:2.04-17.10, p-value = 0.001) and ischemic heart disease (AOR = 9.97, 95% CI:3.4-29.22, p-value = 0.000).

CONCLUSION

Important factors in the occurrence of PSD in this study include prior history of stroke, physical disability, severity of the stroke, subcortical location of the lesion, male gender, and ischemic heart disease. Stroke patients with such factors need routine screening for PSD, particularly in LMICs where there is uncoordinated post-stroke care, a shortage of neurologists and mental health practitioners.

Moving Towards Equity With Digital Health Innovations for Stroke Care

Digital health has long been championed as a means to expanding access to health care. Now that the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated many health systems' integration of digital tools for care, digital health may provide a path towards more accessible stroke prevention and treatment, particularly for historically disadvantaged patient populations. Stroke management is composed of multiple time points where digital health innovations have the potential to augment health access and treatment: from primary prevention, to the time-sensitive detection of ischemic stroke, administration of thrombolytic agents and consideration for endovascular interventions, to appropriate post-acute care, rehabilitation, and lifelong secondary stroke prevention-stroke care relies on a multidisciplinary and standardized approach. However, as we discuss pointedly in this Focused Update, underrepresented individuals face multilevel digital health disparities that potentially diminish the benefits of these digital advances. As such, these multilevel needs must be discussed and accounted for as health systems seek to integrate innovative and equitable digital health solutions towards stroke care.

Role of social support in poststroke depression: A meta-analysis

Poststroke depression significantly affects health and quality of life of stroke patients. This study evaluates the role of social support in influencing poststroke depression. The literature search was conducted in electronic databases and study selection was based on precise eligibility criteria. The prevalence rates reported by individual studies were pooled. A meta-analysis of standardized mean differences (SMD) in social support between depressed and non-depressed stroke patients was performed. The odds ratios and correlation coefficients showing the relationship between social support and depression were pooled to achieve overall estimates. Twenty-five studies (9431 patients) were included. The prevalence of depression was 36% [95% confidence interval (CI): 28, 45]. Patients with poststroke depression had significantly lower social support in comparison with patients with no or lower levels of depression [SMD in social support scores -0.338 (95% CI: -0.589, -0.087); p = 0.008]. The odds of depression were lower in patients receiving higher levels of social support [OR 0.82 (95% CI: 0.69, 0.95)] but were higher in patients who were receiving weaker social support [OR 5.22 (95% CI: -0.87, 11.31)]. A meta-analysis of correlation coefficients found a significantly inverse correlation between social support and poststroke depression [r -0.336 (95% CI: -0.414, -0.254)]. Poststroke depression has a significant independent inverse association with social support.

Changes in PHQ-9 depression scores in acute stroke patients shortly after returning home

INTRODUCTION

Post-stroke depression is a disabling condition that occurs in approximately one-third of stroke survivors. There is limited information on changes in depressive symptoms shortly after stroke survivors return home. To identify factors associated with changes in post-stroke depressive symptoms during the early recovery period, we conducted a secondary analysis of patients enrolled in a clinical trial conducted during the transition period shortly after patients returned home (MISTT).

METHODS

The Michigan Stroke Transitions Trial (MISTT) tested the efficacy of social worker case management and access to online information to improve patient-reported outcomes following an acute stroke. Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) scores were collected via telephone interviews conducted at 7 and 90 days post-discharge; higher scores indicate more depressive symptoms. Generalized estimating equations were used to identify independent predictors of baseline PHQ-9 score at 7 days and of changes over time to 90 days.

RESULTS

Of 265 patients, 193 and 185 completed the PHQ-9 survey at 7 and 90 days, respectively. The mean PHQ-9 score was 5.9 at 7 days and 5.1 at 90 days. Older age, being unmarried, and having moderate stroke severity (versus mild) were significantly associated with lower 7-day PHQ-9 scores (indicating fewer depressive symptoms). However, at 90 days, both unmarried patients and those with moderate or high stroke severity had significant increases in depressive symptoms over time.

CONCLUSIONS

In stroke patients who recently returned home, both marital status and stroke severity were associated with depressive symptom scores; however, the relationships were complex. Being unmarried and having higher stroke severity was associated with fewer depressive symptoms at baseline, but both factors were associated with worsening depressive symptoms over time. Identifying risk factors for changes in depressive symptoms may help guide effective management strategies during the early recovery period.

Burden of depression and predictors among Ethiopian stroke survivors: Cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

stroke is a common cause of mortality and morbidity in low- and middle-income countries. It is a very sudden episode in the patients' lives and can lead to multiple psychosocial, social, and economic consequences, and psychiatric problems. poststroke depression is the most common and major neuropsychiatric consequence of stroke that affects one-third of stroke survivors. The aim of this study to assess the burden of depression and its predictors among stroke survivors with local version validated Patient Health Questionnaire.

METHODS

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among stroke patients at selected tertiary level hospitals. Data were collected by interview method using structured questionnaires, and patient medical record reviews and data were recruited by using consecutive sampling method. Bivariate and multivariable binary logistic regression model analysis was used with SPSS version 23 to identify factors associated with depression.

RESULTS

A total of one hundred eighty stroke patients participated in the study with a response rate of 88.2%. The overall prevalence of depression is 49.6% (95% CI: 42.8, 56.7). Occupation, marital status, level of education of stroke patients was significantly associated with post stroke depression with P < 0.05.

CONCLUSION

The study findings presented that nearly half of the stroke patients suffered from post stroke depression. Post-stroke depression was strongly associated with patient occupation, marital status, and level of education There is urgent need for integration of screening for and management of post-stroke depression among stroke survivors.

Utilisation of self-care products and practices and its associated factors among stroke survivors

This study explored the characteristics associated with the use of self-care products and practices by people rehabilitating from stroke. A cross-sectional sub-study of the Sax Institute's 45 and Up Study in which 1300 participants who had indicated a doctor had diagnosed them as having had a stroke were mailed a sub-study survey. The survey instrument included questionnaire items on demographics, self-care products and practices, health status and stroke status. The survey was completed by 576 (44.3%) of those eligible. At least one self-care product or practice was used by 39.9% of participants. Female participants were more likely than males to use self-care products (P ≤ .001) and self-care practices (P = .021). Self-care product use was higher amongst those with higher levels of fatigue (OR = 1.07) and/or those reporting slight (OR = 2.05) or moderate disability (OR = 2.28), compared with those who had no symptoms at all. As the burden of stroke survivorship increases because of improved acute stroke care in an ageing population, a stronger focus is needed by researchers, clinicians and policy makers on the self-care strategies used by stroke survivors and the ability for health professionals to appropriately support stroke survivors' in their rehabilitation and long-term management.

Depressed Mood after Stroke: Predictive Factors at Six Months Follow-Up

We aimed to know the prevalence of post-stroke depression (PSD) in our context, identify the variables that could predict post-stroke depression, by using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, occurring within six months after stroke, and identify patients at high risk for PSD. Methods: descriptive, cross-sectional and observational study. We included 173 patients with stroke (transient ischemic attack (TIA) included) and collected sociodemographic and clinical variables. We used the Hamilton Depression Scale (HDS) for depression assessment and Barthel Index and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) for functional assessment. The neurological severity was evaluated by the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS). Results: 35.5% were women, aged 71.16 (±12.3). Depression was present in 42.2% patients (n = 73) at six months after stroke. The following variables were significantly associated with PSD: diagnosis of previous depression (p = 0.005), the modified Rankin Scale at discharge (p = 0.032) and length of hospital stay (p = 0.012). Conclusion: PSD is highly prevalent after stroke and is associated with the severity, left location of the stroke, and the degree of disability at discharge. Its impact justifies the evaluation and early treatment that still continues to be a challenge today.

Prevalence and correlates of depression among black and Latino stroke survivors with uncontrolled hypertension: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

To examine the prevalence and correlates of depression in a cohort of black and Hispanic stroke survivors with uncontrolled hypertension.

SETTING

Baseline survey data from 10 stroke centres across New York City.

PARTICIPANTS

Black and Hispanic stroke survivors with uncontrolled hypertension (n=450).

OUTCOME MEASURES

Depressive symptoms were assessed with the 8-item Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) measure. Depression was defined as a PROMIS score ≥55. Other data collected included clinical factors, health-related quality of life (EuroQoL five dimensions (EQ-5D)), functional independence (Barthel Index, BI), stroke-related disability (Modified Rankin Score), physical function (PROMIS Physical Function) and executive functioning (Frontal Assessment Battery).

RESULTS

The mean age was 61.7±11.1 years, 44% of participants were women and 51% were black. Poststroke depression was noted in 32% of the cohort. Examining bivariate relationships, patients with depression were observed to have poorer function and quality of life as evidenced by significantly lower PROMIS physical function scores (36.9±8.32 vs 43.4±10.19, p<0.001); BI scores (79.9±19.2 vs 88.1±15.1, p<0.001); EQ-5D scores (0.66±0.24 vs 0.83±0.17, p<0.001) and higher Rankin scores (2.10±1.00 vs 1.46±1.01, p<0.001) compared with those without depression. Multivariate (model adjusted) significant correlates of depression included lower self-reported quality of life (OR=0.02 (CI 0.004 to 0.12) being younger (OR=0.94; 95% CI 0.91 to 0.97); not married (OR=0.46; CI 0.24 to 0.89)); and foreign-born (OR=3.34, 95% CI 1.4 to 7.97). There was a trend for higher comorbidity to be uniquely associated with depression (≥3 comorbid conditions, OR=1.49, 95% CI 1.00 to 2.23).

CONCLUSIONS

Poststroke depression is common among black and Hispanic stroke survivors with higher rates noted among foreign-born patients and those with high comorbidity. These findings highlight the importance of screening for depression in minority stroke survivors.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT01070056.

Relationships between Chronic Diseases and Depression among Middle-aged and Elderly People in China: A Prospective Study from CHARLS

Given the rapid increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases in aging populations, this prospective study including 17 707 adults aged ≥45 years from China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study was used to estimate the associations between chronic disease, multimorbidity, and depression among middle-aged and elderly adults in China, and explore the mediating factors. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the 10-item Centre for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D-10) questionnaire. Twelve chronic physical conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, cancer, chronic lung disease, liver disease, heart failure, stroke, kidney disease, arthritis or rheumatism, asthma, digestive disease were assessed. The prevalence rates for physical multimorbidity and depression (CES-D-10 ≥10) were 43.23% and 36.62%, respectively. Through multivariable logistic models and generalized estimating equation (GEE) models, we found all 12 chronic physical conditions, and multimorbidity were significantly associated with depression. Both mobility problems and chronic pain explained more than 30% of the association for all chronic conditions, with particularly high percentages for stroke (51.56%) and cancer (51.06%) in mobility problems and cancer (53.35%) in chronic pain. Limited activities of daily living (ADL) explained 34.60% of the stroke-cancer relationship, while sleep problems explained between 10.15% (stroke) and 14.89% (chronic lung disease) of the association. Individuals with chronic diseases or multimorbidity are significantly more likely to be depressed. Functional symptoms involving limitations of ADL and mobility difficulties mediated much of the association between chronic diseases and incident depression. These symptoms could be targeted for interventions to ameliorate the incidence of depression among individuals with chronic conditions.

Post-stroke depression: A 2020 updated review

BACKGROUND

Post-stroke depression (PSD) is common and associated with higher mortality, poorer recovery, more pronounced cognitive deficits, and lower quality of life than is stroke without depression. This manuscript will conduct an updated, comprehensive and clinically-useful review of the risk factors, pathophysiology, assessment, prevention, and treatment of PSD.

METHODS

This narrative review summarizes articles obtained on PubMed, Medline, EMBase, Google Scholar and the Cochrane Database. This review prioritized articles with a more robust level of evidence, such as original articles with longitudinal data and/or larger samples, randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and metaanalyses.

RESULTS

One hundred twenty-four articles were reviewed, of which 44 (35%) were published before 2016 and 80 (65%) that were published since 2016.

DISCUSSION

Rates of PSD range from 18 to 33%, yet it is vastly underdiagnosed and undertreated. Risk factors for PSD include female sex, history of psychiatric illness, large or multiple strokes, injuries in frontal/anterior areas or in the basal ganglia, stroke occurrence within the past year, poor social support, and pronounced disability. The pathophysiology of PSD is multifactorial and likely involves decreased levels of monoamines, abnormal neurotrophic response, increased inflammation with dysregulation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, and glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity. The evidence for preventive interventions for PSD is somewhat inconsistent and modest. The best treatment for PSD consists of the combination of pharmacological, psychosocial and stroke-focused interventions.

CONCLUSION

PSD is a common, treatable condition that is associated with several negative outcomes. Early detection and proper management are critical to obtain better outcomes in individuals with PSD.

Role of Spirituality on the Association Between Depression and Quality of Life in Stroke Survivor-Care Partner Dyads

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the protective effect of spirituality on the association between known risk factors such as depression and quality of life (QOL) in stroke survivor-care partner dyads. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the moderating role of spirituality on the association between depressive symptomatology and QOL in stroke survivor-care partner dyads.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Longitudinal design with 223 stroke survivor-care partner dyads enrolled at survivor discharge from rehabilitation hospitals. Data collection was performed over 12 months. We measured survivors' and care partners' depression, quality of life, and spirituality. Examining the moderating role of spirituality on the association between depressive symptoms and QOL within survivor-care partner dyads, we used a traditional Actor-Partner-Interdependence Model and a basic Actor-Partner-Interdependence Model moderation model for a mixed variable. Survivors (51% male) and care partners (66% female) were 70.7 and 52.3 years old, respectively. The survivor's spirituality significantly moderated the association between care partner depressive symptomatology and survivor psychological QOL (B=0.03, P<0.05) and moderated the association between care partner depressive symptoms and care partner physical (B=0.05, P<0.001) and psychological (B=0.04, P<0.001) QOL. The care partner's own level of spirituality was significantly positively associated with their physical QOL (B=0.28, P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings from this study have broad implications for the role of spirituality in relation to QOL in medical-health contexts and the importance of examining such concepts within a dyadic framework. Greater awareness of the importance of spirituality among clinicians and nurses may improve cultural competence in healthcare services.

Depression Characterization and Race Among Stroke Survivors Receiving Inpatient Rehabilitation

Race and ethnicity play a significant role in poststroke outcomes. This brief report describes the presence of depression among stroke survivors who received inpatient rehabilitation and whether depression differs by race. Data from eRehabData and electronic medical records were analyzed for patients who received rehabilitation after an acute ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. Of 1501 stroke patients, 61.3% were white, 33.9% were African American, and 4.8% were of other race/ethnic backgrounds. By retrospective clinical review, depression was documented for 29.7% of stroke patients. Premorbid versus new onset of poststroke depression was documented for 13.4% and 21.6% of whites, 7.5% and 11.5% of African American, and 0% and 16.7% of patients of other race/ethnic groups. Compared with whites, African American and people of other races had a lower odds of poststroke depression (African American adjusted odds ratio = 0.52, 95% confidence interval = 0.41-0.68; other races odds ratio = 0.37, 95% confidence interval = 0.19-0.71), after adjusting for all other significant risk factors identified in the bivariate analysis (sex, hyperlipidemia, cognitive deficit, neglect). Depression was documented for one in three stroke survivors who received inpatient rehabilitation and highest among whites especially for prestroke depression. Addressing depression in rehabilitation care needs to consider individual patient characteristics and prestroke health status.

Depressive Symptoms After Ischemic Stroke: Population-Based Comparisons of Patients and Caregivers With Matched Controls

Background and Purpose- Persistent depression after ischemic stroke is common in stroke survivors and may be even higher in family caregivers, but few studies have examined depressive symptom levels and their predictors in patient and caregiver groups simultaneously. Methods- Stroke survivors and their family caregivers (205 dyads) were enrolled from the national REGARDS study (Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke) into the CARES study (Caring for Adults Recovering from the Effects of Stroke) ≈9 months after a first-time ischemic stroke. Demographically matched stroke-free dyads (N=205) were also enrolled. Participants were interviewed by telephone, and depressive symptoms were assessed with the 20-item Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression scale. Results- Significant elevations in depressive symptoms (Ps<0.03) were observed for stroke survivors (M=8.38) and for their family caregivers (M=6.42) relative to their matched controls (Ms=5.18 and 4.62, respectively). Stroke survivors reported more symptoms of depression than their caregivers (P=0.008). No race or sex differences were found, but differential prediction of depressive symptom levels was found across patients and caregivers. Younger age and having an older caregiver were associated with more depressive symptoms in stroke survivors while being a spouse caregiver and reporting fewer positive aspects of caregiving were associated with more depressive symptoms in caregivers. The percentage of caregivers at risk for clinically significant depression was lower in this population-based sample (12%) than in previous studies of caregivers from convenience or clinical samples. Conclusions- High depressive symptom levels are common 9 months after first-time ischemic strokes for stroke survivors and family caregivers, but rates of depressive symptoms at risk for clinical depression were lower for caregivers than previously reported. Predictors of depression differ for patients and caregivers, and standards of care should incorporate family caregiving factors.

Lived experiences of chronic cognitive and mood symptoms among community-dwelling adults following stroke: a mixed-methods analysis

Objectives: Few studies have explored the lived experiences of chronic cognitive and mood symptoms following stroke using a racially/ethnically diverse sample. Therefore, we aimed to explore the perceptions of chronic post-stroke cognition and mood symptoms and goals among a racially/ethnically diverse sample of community-dwelling adults aging with stroke. Method: This qualitative study using mixed-methods analysis included semi-structured interviews regarding perceived post-stroke cognitive and mood symptoms among community-dwelling stroke survivors at least one-year post stroke. Transcripts were subjected to thematic content analysis, and differences in theme usage patterns by age, gender, race/ethnicity, and post-acute rehabilitation setting were assessed using an inferential clustering technique. Results: The majority of participants (93%) reported cognition-related themes, including language and communication, memory, thinking abilities, comprehension, visual-spatial processing, and cognitive assessments and training. Nearly half of participants mentioned mood-related themes, including depression, aggression and anger, mood fluctuations, anxiety, and psychological services and medication. Nearly half reported an unmet need for cognition or mood-related treatment. Inferential clustering analysis revealed that older participants reported a different pattern of cognitive and mood symptoms than those aged younger than 65 (p = 0.02). Older adults were more likely to describe post-stroke language/communication changes, while younger adults described post-stroke mood changes. Conclusion: Stroke survivors experienced cognitive and mood-related symptoms beyond one-year post stroke, which has implications for long-term assessment and management. Incorporation of continued symptom monitoring into existing community-based services is needed to address chronic cognitive and mood symptoms affecting the quality of life of persons with stroke.

Ethnic Differences in Prevalence of Post-stroke Depression

BACKGROUND

Little is known about ethnic differences in poststroke depression (PSD) in the United States. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of PSD at 90 days after first-ever stroke and to examine ethnic differences in the prevalence between Mexican Americans (MAs) and non-Hispanic whites (NHWs).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Stroke cases from 2011 to 2015 were identified from the BASIC project (Brain Attack Surveillance in Corpus Christi)-a population-based stroke surveillance study in south Texas. Participants were interviewed at the onset of stroke (baseline interview) and ≈90 days post-stroke (outcome interview). PSD was assessed by the Patient Health Questionnaire-8. Inverse probability weights were generated to account for differential attrition, and weighted logistic regression was used to investigate the association between ethnicity and PSD. The study sample consisted of 586 first-ever stroke patients who completed nonproxy baseline and outcome interviews and had depression assessment. Approximately, 60% of them were MAs, and 40% were NHWs. After accounting for attrition, the prevalence of depression at 90 days post-stroke was 30.4% for MAs (95% confidence interval, 25.0%-35.9%) and 20.7% for NHWs (95% confidence interval, 15.7%-25.7%). The crude odds of PSD in MAs was 1.69 times greater than that in NHWs (95% confidence interval, 1.13-2.51). The odds ratio decreased by 23.6% after adjustment for education (odds ratio, 1.29; 95% confidence interval, 0.82-2.02) and was further attenuated with additional adjustment for other covariates.

CONCLUSIONS

MAs had a higher prevalence of PSD at 90 days than NHWs. The ethnic difference was explained by sociodemographic and health factors, especially low educational attainment.

10-year ASCVD risk is positively correlated with depressive symptoms in a large general population

BACKGROUND

To explore the potential correlation between 10-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk and depressive symptoms in a general population.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study involving 11,956 permanent residents of Liaoning Province in China ≥35 years of age was conducted. Depressive symptoms were assessed with the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) while 10-year ASCVD risk was calculated using the tool suitable for China.

RESULTS

Males had significantly higher 10-year ASCVD risk than females (14.2 ± 10.7% vs. 9.3 ± 9.1%; P <  0.001) but lower PHQ-9 score (2.34 ± 3.13 vs. 3.63 ± 4.02; P <  0.001). The mean PHQ-9 score increased significantly with advancing 10-year ASCVD risk category in both males (from 2.03 to 2.61; P for trend < 0.001) and females (from 3.04 to 4.61; P for trend < 0.001), and the increasing trend was more apparent in females (P <  0.001). Pearson correlation analyses showed that 10-year ASCVD risk positively correlated with PHQ-9 score in both sexes (Ps <  0.001). In multivariate linear regression analyses adjusting for confounding risk factors, the independent associations of 10-year ASCVD risk with PHQ-9 score were all significant in the total (β = 2.61; P <  0.001), male (β = 1.64; P = 0.001), and female subjects (β = 3.71; P <  0.001). Further, the interaction analysis proved the impacts of 10-year ASCVD risk on PHQ-9 score were more apparent in females than males (Ps < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The 10-year ASCVD risk was positively associated with depressive symptoms in both males and females, which was more apparent in the latter. These findings provided some novel data about the value of 10-year ASCVD risk in estimating depressive symptoms.

Depression treatment use among stroke individuals with depression: A cross-sectional analysis of the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey

BACKGROUND

Depression is the most prevalent psychiatric comorbidity among stroke individuals. Despite the effectiveness of antidepressants and psychotherapy, data on the use of these treatments among stroke survivors is limited.

OBJECTIVE

The main objective of this study was to document prevalence of antidepressant use, types of antidepressants utilized, and adherence to antidepressants among stroke individuals.

METHODS

Retrospective, cross-sectional data obtained from the Medical Expenditure Panel Surveys (MEPS), for the years 2011, 2013 and 2015, was utilized for this study. Treatment for depression was categorized into three mutually exclusive categories: 1) antidepressants only, 2) antidepressants and psychotherapy (combination), and 3) No treatment. Adherence to antidepressants was measured using the Proportion of Days Covered (PDC) ratio. Adherence between antidepressant only and combination therapy group was compared using Student's t-test. A multinomial logistic regression analysis was used to further examine the association between patient characteristics and likelihood of receiving depression treatment.

RESULTS

A total of 759 stroke individuals with comorbid depression were identified. Of these, 51.2% utilized only antidepressants, 12.6% utilized a combination treatment of antidepressants and psychotherapy and 31.7% did not receive treatment for depression. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI's) was the most commonly used antidepressants in the stroke population. Males (P = 0.04), age group of 40-64 years (P < 0.001), and African Americans (P = 0.02) constituted for the highest proportions of untreated stroke survivors. Among treated stroke individuals, adherence was higher for combination therapy users compared to those using antidepressants only (mean PDC = 65.8 ± 6.89 and 57.6 ± 3.74, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Almost 70% of stroke individuals received some form of treatment for depression and several patient-related factors (gender, age, race, marital status, and comorbidity burden) were associated with the utilization of depression treatment. Future researchers need to investigate the factors responsible for lack of depression treatment in stroke individuals and policy makers should aim for a more patient centered care.

Vitamin D status and its association with season, depression in stroke

BACKGROUND

Vitamin D plays a key role in depression. In this study, we aimed to assess the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency and the association between vitamin D status and depression in patients with acute stroke.

METHODS

From September 2013 to May 2015, consecutive patients with acute stroke were enrolled in this study within 7 days of symptom onset. Clinical information was collected during admission, and stroke severity was assessed at discharge. Depressive symptoms were measured by the 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression at 1 month after stroke. Based on the depressive symptoms, diagnoses of depression were made in accordance with DSM-IV criteria. Serum vitamin D levels were measured at admission. Binary logistic regression models were used to determine the association between depression and vitamin D levels treated as either absolute values (categorized as deficiency, insufficiency and sufficiency) or month-specific tertiles. Vitamin D levels were categorized by month-specific tertiles (high, intermediate, low) to reflect seasonal variation of serum vitamin D levels.

RESULTS

A total of 442 patients were enrolled in this study. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency (< 30 nmol/L) or insufficiency (30-49.99 nmol/L) was 46%. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was significantly different in winter compared to summer months (p < 0.001). One hundred seven patients (26.6%) were diagnosed with depression at 1 month. In multivariable analyses, after fully adjusting for other potential confounders, the prevalence of depression was significantly higher in patients in the low tertile (odds ratio(OR) 2.24, 95% confidence interval (CI)1.18-4.26; p = 0.014) compared to the high tertile, and the prevalence of depression was also significantly higher in patients with vitamin D deficiency (OR 2.66, 95% CI 1.48-4.77; p = 0.001) and insufficiency (OR 1.93, 95% CI 1.00-3.74; p = 0.049) compared to those with vitamin D sufficiency.

CONCLUSIONS

Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency occur at high rates in acute stroke patients. Low serum vitamin D levels were associated with depression in patients with acute stroke as analyzed by both the absolute level of vitamin D and month-specific tertiles. Intervention studies are needed to determine the benefits of vitamin D supplementation for depression in poststroke patients.

Prevalence, patterns and predictors of depression treatment among community-dwelling older adults with stroke in the United States: a cross sectional study

BACKGROUND

Depression is one of the most common psychiatric conditions among stroke survivors and is associated with several negative health outcomes. However, little is known about the depression treatment patterns among stroke survivors. The objective of this study was to examine national-level prevalence, patterns and predictors of depression treatment among community-dwelling stroke survivors.

METHODS

This study adopted a retrospective, cross-sectional study design using multiple years of Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) (2002-2012) data. The study population consisted of older adults (age ≥ 50 years) who (i) were stroke survivors (ICD-9-CM codes of 430-438), (ii) did not die during the calendar year, and (iii) had co-occurring depression (ICD-9-CM code of 296.xx, or 311.xx). Depression treatment, identified by antidepressant medication and/or psychotherapy use, was the dependent variable of this study. Multinomial logistic regression analysis was conducted to examine the association of individual level factors with depression treatment among stroke survivors with co-occurring depression.

RESULTS

The final study sample consisted 370 (unweighted) community-dwelling older adults with self-reported stroke and depression. The prevalence of co-occurring depression among stroke survivors was 22.03% [95% Confidence Interval (CI) 19.7-24.4%]. An overwhelming majority (87.6%) of stroke survivors with co-occurring depression reported some form of depression treatment. Antidepressants only and combination therapy was reported by 74.8% (95% CI, 71.6-78.0%] and 12.8% (95% CI, 10.5-15.1%) by stroke survivors with co-occurring depression respectively. Approximately, 61% of stroke survivors with co-occurring depression reported using SSRIs, followed by SNRIs (15.2%), miscellaneous antidepressants (12.1%), TCAs (9.8%), phenylpiperazine antidepressants (5.2%), and tetracyclic antidepressants (4%). Sertraline (15.8, 95% CI, 12.7-19.0%) had the highest reported use among individual antidepressants.

CONCLUSIONS

Vast majority (nearly 90%) of the study sample received some form of depression treatment and several individual level factors (such as age, education) were associated with the report of depression treatment use. Future longitudinal studies are warranted to assess the comparative treatment benefits of antidepressants, psychotherapy and their combination. Healthcare providers should carefully assess the risks and benefits of antidepressant (such as SSRIs or TCAs) use in this vulnerable population prior to their use.

Prevalence of poststroke depression in Iranian patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Poststroke depression (PSD) is the most common and important neuropsychiatric consequences of stroke, which can result in longer hospital stay, compromise the effectiveness of rehabilitation, and reduce the patients' quality of life. However, Iranian studies have reported different and conflicting prevalence rates for PSD.

OBJECTIVE

The present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the overall prevalence of PSD in Iranian patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A systematic search was conducted in 2018 for Persian or English articles on PSD, published in the Scientific Information Database (SID), MagIran, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, using the following keywords: depression, depressive disorder, stroke, cerebrovascular disorder, and Iran and all of their possible combinations. Heterogeneity across the studies was evaluated using the Cochran's Q test. According to the heterogeneity results, a random effects model was used to estimate the overall prevalence of PSD. The data were analyzed using the Stata 12 software.

RESULTS

Overall, six articles with a total sample size of 641 patients were included in the analysis. The overall prevalence of PSD in Iran was 46.9% (95% CI: 30.1-63.7). In addition, the prevalence of PSD was higher in women (50.4%, 95% CI: 17.9-82.9) than in men (29.5%, 95% CI: 17.2-41.8). According to the results of univariate meta-regression, there was a significant relationship between PSD prevalence and sample size (P=0.010).

CONCLUSION

Around half of the stroke patients in Iran suffer from PSD. Given the overlap between neurological symptoms of stroke and depression, efforts should be made to quickly and accurately diagnose depression so that it can be effectively managed with minimum complications.

High serum levels of 8-OHdG are an independent predictor of post-stroke depression in Chinese stroke survivors

PURPOSE

Although previous studies have investigated oxidative stress biomarkers in association with depression in non-stroke subjects, the association between oxidative deoxyribonucleic acid damage and post-stroke depression (PSD) remains unelucidated.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Two hundred forty-one first-ever ischemic stroke patients were consecutively recruited within the first 24 h of stroke onset and were followed up at 1 month. Serum 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and catalase (CAT) levels were measured within 24 h of admission using a commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The 17-item Hamilton Depression Scale was used to evaluate depressive symptoms. Diagnosis of PSD was made in line with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition criteria for depression.

RESULTS

Serum levels of 8-OHdG (P<0.001) and CAT (P=0.025) increased in depressed patients at admission. A positive correlation was found between the 8-OHdG and CAT levels in both the total stroke patients (r=0.320, P<0.001) and the depressed patients (r=0.300, P=0.012). The 8-OHdG levels were positively correlated with the 17-item Hamilton Depression Scale scores (r=0.129, P=0.046) in depressed patients. Multivariate analyses found that 8-OHdG levels ≥200.0 ng/L were independently associated with PSD (odds ratio, 7.477; 95% CI, 3.342-16.289, P<0.001) after adjusting for possible relevant confounders.

CONCLUSION

Higher serum 8-OHdG levels at admission were found to be correlated with PSD 1 month after stroke.

Importance and Difficulties of Pursuing rTMS Research in Acute Stroke

Although much research has been done on repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in chronic stroke, only sparse research has been done in acute stroke despite the particularly rich potential for neuroplasticity in this stage. We attempted a preliminary clinical trial in one active, high-quality inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF) in the -United States. But after enrolling only 4 patients in the grant period, the study was stopped because of low enrollment. The purpose of this paper is to offer a perspective describing the important physiologic rationale for including rTMS in the early phase of stroke, the reasons for our poor patient enrollment in our attempted study, and recommendations to help future studies succeed. We conclude that, if scientists and clinicians hope to enhance stroke outcomes, more attention must be directed to leveraging conventional rehabilitation with neuromodulation in the acute phase of stroke when the capacity for neuroplasticity is optimal. Difficulties with patient enrollment must be addressed by reassessing traditional inclusion and exclusion criteria. Factors that shorten patients' length of stay in the IRF must also be reassessed at all policy-making levels to make ethical decisions that promote higher functional outcomes while retaining cost consciousness.

Association between CHADS2 score, depressive symptoms, and quality of life in a general population

BACKGROUND

To investigate the association between CHADS₂ score, depressive symptoms, and quality of life in a large general population from China.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study of 11,956 permanent residents of Liaoning Province in China ≥ 35 years of age was conducted between January and August 2013 (response rate 85.3%). All participants completed a questionnaire, had a physical examination, and underwent blood examination. Depressive symptoms were assessed with the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), while the quality of life (QoL) was measured using the World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Scale (WHOQOL-BREF).

RESULTS

With increasing CHADS₂ score, the prevalence of depressive symptoms increased from 4.9 to 27.8% (P < 0.001), and all scores of WHOQOL-BREF decreased significantly (all Ps < 0.001). After adjusting for confounding risk factors, subjects with CHADS₂ score ≥ 3 had higher risk of depressive symptoms than those with CHADS₂ score = 0 (all Ps < 0.05). Also, CHADS₂ score was negatively associated with all scores of WHOQOL-BREF (all Ps < 0.001). Furthermore, subjects with any item in CHADS₂ had higher prevalence of depressive symptoms (all Ps < 0.001). Heart failure and stroke remained independently associated with depressive symptoms after adjusting for confounding risk factors and other items (Ps < 0.001), while heart failure, age ≥ 75 years, diabetes mellitus, and stroke were all independently negatively associated with the total score of WHOQOL-BREF (all Ps < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The CHADS₂ score is significantly associated with depressive symptoms and impaired quality of life in the general population.

Factors that influence the severity of post-stroke depression

AIM

The aim of this paper was to investigate whether the extent of neurological impairment, the location of ischemic lesions due to stroke are associated with the severity of post-stroke depression.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study included 82 patients, who were diagnosed with acute ischemic stroke and post-stroke depression and were admitted to the Neurology Clinic of Cluj-Napoca County Emergency Hospital between 2009 and 2011. A head MRI was performed with a 1.5 Tesla. Psychometric assessment was performed by using several scales, including the Beck Depression Inventory and the Mini-Mental State Examination. The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and the Barthel Index of Activities of Daily Living were used to produce a complete neurological assessment.

RESULTS

Patients with severe depression had a lower score on the Quality of Life Scale (QOLS) and higher scores for the Barthel index, NIHSS and MMSE. A stroke located in the basal nuclei increased the probability of severe depression. The patients with fewer lesions (1-2) had a greater chance of developing mild or moderate depression compared to the patients with 3-4 lesions. A frontal localization of the stroke was almost twice as common in patients with severe depression. If the stroke affected the left hemisphere, there was a higher probability of severe depression. In multivariate analysis, a basal nuclei lesion, a left hemisphere stroke location, and an NIHSS score >11 were all independently associated with severe depression.

CONCLUSION

The location of the stroke and the NIHSS score could be related to the severity of post-stroke depression. Abbreviations: NIHSS = The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale; QQL = Quality of life Scale; BDI = Beck Depression Inventory; MMSE = Mini-Mental State Examination; PSD = Post-stroke depression; MRI = Magnetic resonance imaging.