Prevalence, awareness, and burden of major depressive disorder in urban China.

OBJECTIVES

This cross-sectional study examined the prevalence and burden of major depressive disorder (MDD) among adults in urban China.

METHODS

Data were included from the 2012 China National Health and Wellness Survey. Respondents self-reporting physician diagnosis of depression and screening positive for MDD (Patient Health Questionnaire-9), plus those screening positive for MDD, but undiagnosed and not experiencing depression, were compared with non-depressed controls. Outcomes included health-related quality of life (HRQoL), productivity loss, and resource utilization. Multivariable models assessed outcomes as a function of MDD, controlling for covariates.

RESULTS

MDD prevalence was 6.0%; only 8.3% of these respondents were diagnosed, among whom 51.5% currently used prescription medication for depression. Adults with MDD (diagnosed or undiagnosed) reported significantly poorer HRQoL and greater productivity loss and resource utilization than controls.

CONCLUSIONS

MDD in urban China may be under-diagnosed and undertreated. Awareness and better access to treatments may help alleviate the burden of MDD.