Frequency of anxiety and depression in Caregivers of Beta Thalassemia Major in Mekran
Abstract
Abstract
Objective
To determine the frequency of anxiety and depression among the caregivers of patients with beta thalassemia major in a tertiary hospital, and to identify the gender and demographic factors on their mental outcomes.
Methodology
This cross-sectional study was conducted at Kech Thalassemia Care Center (KTCC), affiliated with the tertiary teaching hospital, Turbat, from June 2024 to February 2025. A total of 88 caregivers of patients with beta-thalassemia major (BTM) were enrolled. A non-probability sampling technique was used for data collection. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale was administered to assess the levels of anxiety and depression in caregivers. Data were analysed using SPSS version 20.0. Chi-square tests and binary logistic regression were used to evaluate associations and predictors.
Results
Moderate-to-severe anxiety was observed in 50% of Caregivers of BTM patients, while 30.7% showed moderate depression. Female caregivers and those with no formal education had higher anxiety and depression than male caregivers. Low income (≤ 50,000 PKR) was a significant predictor of depression (aOR = 4.65, p = 0.019).
Conclusion:
Depression and Anxiety disorders are prevalent among primary caregivers of beta thalassemia major in Mekran region of Balochistan. Low household monthly income, illiteracy, widowed status, and female gender are associated with a higher frequency of anxiety and depression. Mental health interventions are required.
Keywords: Caregivers, Beta thalassemia major, Anxiety, Depression, Mekran
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