Community-Based Co-Morbidity of Depression and Chronic Physical Illnesses in Hong Kong

Abstract

Objective: To examine the co-morbidity of depression and chronic physical illnesses in a representative sample of Hong Kong Chinese. Methods: Five thousand and four participants aged 18–65 years completed a structured telephone interview on major depressive episode (MDE) and eight chronic physical illnesses. Results: 21.5% ( N = 1078) of respondents had any physical illness in the previous 1 year. Twelve-month MDE was found in 15% ( N = 162) of these physically ill respondents and was significantly associated with physical illnesses (OR: 2.56, 95% CI: 2.07–3.16, p < 0.001). Number of co-morbid physical illnesses had an incremental association with the risk of MDE. Conclusion: Co-morbidity of depression and chronic physical illnesses is common in Hong Kong as in Western countries. This speaks to the need for evidence-based practice that encompasses models of integrated care in Hong Kong.