Risk Factors Associated With Depression Among Tuberculosis Patients Attending Mbagala Hospital In Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major public health challenge worldwide and is frequently accompanied by mental health disorders, particularly depression. Depression among TB patients can negatively affect treatment adherence, recovery, and quality of life. This study aimed to identify the risk factors associated with depression among tuberculosis patients attending Mbagala Hospital in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. A quantitative cross-sectional study design was employed among TB patients aged 18 years and above receiving treatment at the TB clinic in Mbagala Hospital. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) to assess depressive symptoms. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, and crosstabulations, were used to identify socio-demographic, disease-related, and psychosocial risk factors associated with depression. The study identified several factors linked to depression among TB patients. Key determinants included stigma associated with tuberculosis, limited social support, and co-existing medical conditions such as hypertension. These factors were found to increase the likelihood of depressive symptoms among patients undergoing TB treatment. The cross-sectional design limits the ability to establish causal relationships between risk factors and depression. However, the findings provide important insights into the psychosocial challenges faced by TB patients and highlight the need for integrated mental health services in TB care programs. Integrating mental health screening into TB treatment programs may improve patient outcomes by addressing depression early. Strengthening social support mechanisms and reducing stigma within communities may also help reduce the burden ofdepression among TB patients.