Screening for depression in a single CF centre

Abstract

Introduction: The International Depression and Anxiety Epidemiological Study (TIDES) in CF attempts to provide prevalence data for mental distress in CF patients. The current study reports the results from the UK pilot in a single major CF centre in which the performances of different instruments were compared, and risk of self harm measured.

Methods: Two mental health assessment screening instruments, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the Patient Health Questionnaire for depression (PHQ-9) were given to all adults with CF attending the Regional Adult CF Unit in Leeds, UK.

Results: 232 patients took part. 13 (5.6%) scored in the clinical range for depression on the HADS and 78 (33.4%) on the PHQ9. The suicide risk item on the PHQ9 was endorsed by 24 patients (10.4%).

Discussion: Major discrepancies were found in rates of depression detected by two popular screening tools. A significant minority of respondents indicated suicidal ideation. Work is needed to identify the most appropriate screening tool for depression in this population, and it is important that this includes an assessment of self harm.

Keywords: Cystic fibrosis; Depression; Screening; Suicide.