Case-finding instruments for depression. Two questions are as good as many

Group, One-on-One, or Internet? Preferences for Mindfulness Meditation Delivery Format and their Predictors

OBJECTIVES

Group mindfulness meditation interventions have improved symptoms in many health conditions. However, many people are unwilling to receive group treatment, so alternative delivery methods such as individual and internet may be a useful option. The study objective was to examine mindfulness meditation intervention delivery format preferences and their relationship to potential predictors.

DESIGN

An online survey was conducted of adult English speakers. Data was collected on interest and preference for internet, individual, or group formats of a mindfulness meditation intervention. Age, gender, personality, and posttraumatic stress disorder score and status and depression status were also collected.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

500 eligible participants completed the survey (mean age 39±15; range 18-70; 68% female). Participants were more interested in the Internet (n=356) and individual formats (n=384) than the group format (n=245). Fifty-five participants (11%) said they would refuse a group format. Internet was the first choice format for most participants (Internet 212 (43%), Individual 187 (38%), Group 97 (20%) and group was the last choice for most participants (Internet 140 (29%), Individual 70 (14%), Group 279 (57%)). Age, extraversion and emotional stability were significant in predicting first choice format. These results support the need for more research and implementation of alternative mindfulness meditation intervention delivery formats. Future research will incorporate additional predictors and include a broader range of participants.

Depressive symptoms and short telomere length are associated with increased mortality in bladder cancer patients

BACKGROUND

Depression is associated with an increased risk of mortality in patients with cancer; it has been hypothesized that depression-associated alterations in cell aging mechanisms, in particular, the telomere/telomerase maintenance system, may underlie this increased risk. We evaluated the association of depressive symptoms and telomere length to mortality and recurrence/progression in 464 patients with bladder cancer.

METHODS

We used the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) and Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Disorder (SCID) to assess current depressive symptoms and lifetime major depressive disorder (MDD), respectively, and telomere length was assessed from peripheral blood lymphocytes. Multivariate Cox regression was used to assess the association of depression and telomere length to outcomes and the joint effect of both. Kaplan-Meier plots and log-rank tests were used to compare survival time of subgroups by depression variables and telomere length.

RESULTS

Patients with depressive symptoms (CES-D ≥ 16) had a 1.83-fold [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.08-3.08; P = 0.024] increased risk of mortality compared with patients without depressive symptoms (CES-D < 16) and shorter disease-free survival time (P = 0.004). Patients with both depressive symptoms and lifetime history of MDD were at 4.88-fold (95% CI, 1.40-16.99; P = 0.013) increased risk compared with patients with neither condition. Compared to patients without depressive symptoms and long telomere length, patients with depressive symptoms and short telomeres exhibited a 4-fold increased risk of mortality (HR, 3.96; 95% CI, 1.86-8.41; P = 0.0003) and significantly shorter disease-free survival time (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Short telomere length and depressive symptoms are associated with bladder cancer mortality individually and jointly.

IMPACT

Further investigation of interventions that impact depression and telomere length may be warranted in patients with cancer.

Developing stepped care treatment for depression (STEPS): study protocol for a pilot randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Stepped care is recommended and implemented as a means to organise depression treatment. Compared with alternative systems, it is assumed to achieve equivalent clinical effects and greater efficiency. However, no trials have examined these assumptions. A fully powered trial of stepped care compared with intensive psychological therapy is required but a number of methodological and procedural uncertainties associated with the conduct of a large trial need to be addressed first.

METHODS/DESIGN

STEPS (Developing stepped care treatment for depression) is a mixed methods study to address uncertainties associated with a large-scale evaluation of stepped care compared with high-intensity psychological therapy alone for the treatment of depression. We will conduct a pilot randomised controlled trial with an embedded process study. Quantitative trial data on recruitment, retention and the pathway of patients through treatment will be used to assess feasibility. Outcome data on the effects of stepped care compared with high-intensity therapy alone will inform a sample size calculation for a definitive trial. Qualitative interviews will be undertaken to explore what people think of our trial methods and procedures and the stepped care intervention. A minimum of 60 patients with Major Depressive Disorder will be recruited from an Improving Access to Psychological Therapies service and randomly allocated to receive stepped care or intensive psychological therapy alone. All treatments will be delivered at clinic facilities within the University of Exeter. Quantitative patient-related data on depressive symptoms, worry and anxiety and quality of life will be collected at baseline and 6 months. The pilot trial and interviews will be undertaken concurrently. Quantitative and qualitative data will be analysed separately and then integrated.

DISCUSSION

The outcomes of this study will inform the design of a fully powered randomised controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of stepped care. Qualitative data on stepped care will be of immediate interest to patients, clinicians, service managers, policy makers and guideline developers. A more informed understanding of the feasibility of a large trial will be obtained than would be possible from a purely quantitative (or qualitative) design.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN66346646 registered on 2 July 2014.

CASPER plus (CollAborative care in Screen-Positive EldeRs with major depressive disorder): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Background

Depression accounts for the greatest disease burden of all mental health disorders, contributes heavily to healthcare costs, and by 2020 is set to become the second largest cause of global disability. Although 10% to 16% of people aged 65 years and over are likely to experience depressive symptoms, the condition is under-diagnosed and often inadequately treated in primary care. Later-life depression is associated with chronic illness and disability, cognitive impairment and social isolation. With a progressively ageing population it becomes increasingly important to refine strategies to identity and manage depression in older people. Currently, management may be limited to the prescription of antidepressants where there may be poor concordance; older people may lack awareness of psychosocial interventions and general practitioners may neglect to offer this treatment option.

Methods/design

CASPER Plus is a multi-centre, randomised controlled trial of a collaborative care intervention for individuals aged 65 years and over experiencing moderate to severe depression. Selected practices in the North of England identify potentially eligible patients and invite them to participate in the study. A diagnostic interview is carried out and participants with major depressive disorder are randomised to either collaborative care or usual care. The recruitment target is 450 participants.

The intervention, behavioural activation and medication management in a collaborative care framework, has been adapted to meet the complex needs of older people. It is delivered over eight to 10 weekly sessions by a case manager liaising with general practitioners.

The trial aims to evaluate the clinical and cost effectiveness of collaborative care in addition to usual GP care versus usual GP care alone. The primary clinical outcome, depression severity, will be measured with the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) at baseline, 4, 12 and 18 months. Cost effectiveness analysis will assess health-related quality of life using the SF-12 and EQ-5D and will examine cost-consequences of collaborative care.

A qualitative process evaluation will be undertaken to explore acceptability, gauge the extent to which the intervention is implemented and to explore sustainability beyond the clinical trial.

Discussion

Results will add to existing evidence and a positive outcome may lead to the commissioning of this model of service in primary care.

Trial registration

ISRCTN45842879 (24 July 2012).

Antenatal mental health referrals: review of local clinical practice and pregnant women's experiences in England

OBJECTIVE

to investigate (i) the consistency and completeness of mental health assessment documented at hospital booking; (ii) the subsequent management of pregnant women identified as experiencing, or at risk of, mental health problems; and (iii) women's experiences of the mental health referral process.

DESIGN

mixed methods cohort study

SETTING

large, inner-city hospital in the north of England

PARTICIPANTS

women (n=191) booking at their first formal antenatal appointment; mean gestational age at booking 13 weeks.

METHODS

women self-completed the routine mental health assessment in the clinical handheld maternity notes, followed by a research pack. Documentation of mental health assessment (including assessment of depression symptoms using the Whooley and Arroll questions, and mental health history), mental health referrals and their management were obtained from women's health records following birth. Longitudinal semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sub-sample of 22 women during and after pregnancy.

FINDINGS

documentation of responses to the Whooley and Arroll questions was limited to the handheld notes and symptoms were not routinely monitored using these questions, even for women identified as possible cases of depression. The common focus of referrals was on the women's previous mental health history rather than current depression symptoms, assessed using the Whooley questions. Women referred to a Mental Health Specialist Midwife for further support were triaged based on the written referral and few met eligibility criteria. Although some women initially viewed the referral as offering a 'safety net', analysis of health records and subsequent interviews with women both indicated that communication regarding the management of referrals was inadequate and women tended not to hear back about the outcome of their referral.

KEY CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

mental health assessment was introduced without ensuring that identified needs would be managed consistently. Care pathways and practices need to encompass identification, subsequent referral and management of mental ill-health, and ensure effective communication with patients and between health professionals.

Distress among matriculating medical students relative to the general population

PURPOSE

Many medical students experience distress during medical school. If matriculating medical students (MMSs) begin training with similar or better mental health than age-similar controls, this would support existing concerns about the negative impact of training on student well-being. The authors compared mental health indicators of MMSs versus those of a probability-based sample of the general U.S. population.

METHOD

In 2012 all MMSs at six U.S. medical schools were invited to participate in a survey during orientation. The research team surveyed a probability-based sample of U.S. individuals using the same questions in 2011. Individuals from the population sample who completed a four-year college degree and matched within the appropriate age strata (< 30, 31-35, 36-40, > 40) were compared with MMSs. Surveys included demographics and validated instruments to measure burnout; depression symptoms; and mental, emotional, physical, and overall of quality of life (QOL).

RESULTS

Demographic characteristics of the 582/938 (62%) responding MMSs were similar to U.S. MMSs. Relative to 546 age-similar college graduates, MMSs had lower rates of burnout (27.3% versus 37.3%, P < .001) and depression symptoms (26.2% versus 42.4%, P < .0001) and higher scores across the four QOL domains assessed relative to controls (all P < .0001). These findings persisted on multivariate analysis after adjusting for age, sex, relationship status, and race/ethnicity.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings, along with high rates of distress reported in medical students and residents, support concerns that the training process and environment contribute to the deterioration of mental health in developing physicians.

Early intervention to protect the mother-infant relationship following postnatal depression: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

At least 13% of mothers experience depression in the first postnatal year, with accompanying feelings of despair and a range of debilitating symptoms. Serious sequelae include disturbances in the mother-infant relationship and poor long-term cognitive and behavioural outcomes for the child. Surprisingly, treatment of maternal symptoms of postnatal depression does not improve the mother-infant relationship for a majority of women. Targeted interventions to improve the mother-infant relationship following postnatal depression are scarce and, of those that exist, the majority are not evaluated in randomised controlled trials. This study aims to evaluate a brief targeted mother-infant intervention, to follow cognitive behavioural therapy treatment of postnatal depression, which has the potential to improve developmental outcomes of children of depressed mothers.

METHODS/DESIGN

The proposed study is a two-arm randomised controlled trial with follow-up to 6 months. One hundred participants will be recruited via referrals from health professionals including maternal and child health nurses and general practitioners, as well as self-referrals from women who have seen promotional materials for the study. Women who meet inclusion criteria (infant aged <12 months, women 18+ years of age) will complete the Structured Clinical Interview for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-IV-TR Axis I Disorders. Those with a clinical diagnosis of current major or minor depressive disorder and who do not meet exclusion criteria (that is, currently receiving treatment for depression, significant difficulty with English, medium to high suicide risk, current self-harm, current substance abuse, current post-traumatic stress disorder, current manic/hypomanic episode or psychotic symptoms) will be randomised to receive either a 4-session mother-infant intervention (HUGS: Happiness Understanding Giving and Sharing) or a 4-session attention placebo playgroup (Playtime) following a 12-session postnatal depression group treatment programme. Primary outcome measures are the Parenting Stress Index (self-report measure) and the Parent-child Early Relational Assessment (observational measure coded by a blinded observer). Measurements are taken at baseline, after the postnatal depression programme, post-HUGS/Playtime, and at 6 months post-HUGS/Playtime.

DISCUSSION

This research addresses the need for specific treatment for mother-infant interactional difficulties following postnatal depression. There is a need to investigate interventions in randomised trials to prevent detrimental effects on child development and make available evidence-based treatments.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Australia and New Zealand Clinical Trials Register: ACTRN12612001110875. Date Registered: 17 October 2012.

Prevention of child maltreatment

Pediatricians and other health care providers can play several important roles in the prevention of child maltreatment. This article aims to help pediatricians incorporate child abuse prevention into their practice. Resources for systematizing anticipatory guidance and screening for risk factors in child maltreatment are described. The modalities, strengths, and weaknesses of community-based prevention programs are discussed, and tools with which providers can identify the effectiveness of available community-based programs are offered. On a broader level, ways whereby pediatricians can advocate at the local, state, and national levels for policies and programs that support families and children are described.

A monetary valuation of the quality of life loss associated with pathological gambling: an application using a health utility index

This study estimates the Health Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) costs of gambling addiction. Pathological gamblers were recruited from treatment centers in Western Switzerland. The difference in HRQoL between pathological gamblers (n=52) and a sample drawn from the general population (n=93) was measured through a multi-item instrument, the SF-6D. We used a tobit regression to estimate the effect of pathological gambling on HRQoL, controlling for comorbidities and age. Finally, to obtain a monetary value of the HRQoL loss attributable to gambling addiction, we applied an existing value of a life year estimate. Results showed that pathological gambling is significantly associated with a decrease in the quality of life by 0.076 quality adjusted life year (QALY). The resulting cost per pathological gambler and per year was estimated at CHF 3,830. This study suggests that ignoring quality of life costs results in an underestimation of the social burden of gambling addiction.

Psychosocial, physical, and autonomic correlates of depression in korean adults: results from a county-based depression screening study

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the prevalence and psychosocial and neurophysiological correlates of depression in a large county-based cohort of Korean adults.

METHODS

We recruited 2355 adults from a rural county-based health promotion program. The following psychometric scales were used: the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale (CES-D) was used to assess depression, the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) was used to evaluate stress, and the Medical Outcome Study Social Support Survey (MOS-SSS) was used to determine perceived social support. Heart rate variability (HRV) was used to assess neurophysiological properties. The psychosocial and neurophysiological variables of adults with depression (CES-D score ≥25) and without depression (CES-D score <25) were statistically compared. A logistic regression model was constructed to identify factors independently associated with depression.

RESULTS

We estimated that 17.7% of the subjects had depression, which was associated with old age, being female, being single, less religious affiliation, high education, low body mass index (BMI), low levels of aerobic exercise, low social support, and a low HRV triangular index. The explanatory factors of depression included high education, less religious affiliation, low levels of current aerobic exercise, low BMI, and low social support.

CONCLUSION

Given the relatively high prevalence of overall depression, subsyndromal depression should also be regarded as an important issue in screening. The independent factors associated with depression suggest that practical psychosocial intervention, including brief psychotherapy, aerobic exercise, and other self-help methods should be considered. In addition, the HRV results suggest that further depression screening accompanied by neurophysiological features would require fine methodological modifications with proactive efforts to prevent depressive symptoms.

Assessing the knowledge of perinatal mental illness among student midwives

The experience of perinatal mental illness (mental illness occurring around the time of pregnancy) currently affect 1 in 10 women and can have adverse effects on the mother and her child (Massie and Szajnberg, 2002; O'Connor et al., 2002). The care and effective management of women experiencing perinatal mental illness is therefore an important issue for health care staff, managers, psychiatrists, commissioners and campaigners. Midwives play a significant part in caring for women throughout their pregnancies, during labour and up to the first month after birth. Midwives are in a unique position to assess a woman's well-being and to offer appropriate support. However, previous research has revealed that midwives often have poor understanding and knowledge of perinatal mental health issues and require improved training (Ross-Davie et al, 2006; McCann and Clark, 2010). This research project aims to systematically assess student midwives awareness of perinatal mental illness. The findings of this study will inform curriculum development for graduate and post-graduate midwifery students therefore improving the care and support women with mental illness receive from antenatal services. The findings from this study will also be used for the formation of an educational web-based programme for student and qualified midwives.

Adherence to antiretroviral therapy during pregnancy and the first year postpartum among HIV-positive women in Ukraine

Background

Poor adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is associated with HIV disease progression and, during pregnancy, increased mother-to-child transmission risk. In Ukraine, access to combination ART is expanding but data on adherence are scarce.

Methods

Cross-sectional surveys of HIV-positive women were conducted i) at delivery (on antenatal ART adherence) and ii) during the first year postpartum (on ART adherence in the preceding four weeks). Factors associated with a score ≤11 on the self-report Case Adherence Support Evaluation (CASE) index or ≥1 self-reported missed dose were assessed using Fisher’s exact test.

Results

Of 185 antenatal participants and 102 postnatal participants, median ages were 27.5 and 29.5 years respectively: 28% (50/180) and 27% (26/98) reported an unplanned pregnancy, and 13% (24/179) and 17% (17/98) an illicit drug-use history (excluding marijuana). One quarter (49/180 antenatally, 27/101 postnatally) screened positive for depression. The proportion reporting ‘low’ ART-related self-efficacy (i.e. unable to do ≥1/5 ART-taking activities) was 20% (28/141) antenatally and 17% (11/66) postnatally. Antenatally, 14% (95% CI 10-21%) had a CASE score ≤11 and 35% (95% CI 28-42%) reported missing ≥1 dose. Factors associated with a CASE score ≤11 were unplanned pregnancy (25% (12/48) vs. 11% (13/120) where planned, p = 0.03) and living with extended family (23% (13/57) vs. 10% (12/125) living with partner/alone, p = 0.04). Self-report of ≥1 missed dose antenatally was additionally associated with younger age (p = 0.03) and lower self-efficacy (50% (14/28) reported ≥1 missed dose vs. 28% (30/108) of those with high self-efficacy, p = 0.04). Of 102 postnatal participants, 8% (95% CI 4-15%) had a CASE score ≤11 and 31% (95% CI 22-41%) reported ≥1 missed dose. Of 11 women with low self-efficacy, 3 (27%) had a CASE score ≤11 compared with 3/55 (5%) of those with high self-efficacy (p = 0.05). Current smokers more commonly reported ≥1 missed dose postnatally (50% (13/26) vs. 25% (18/72) of non-smokers, p = 0.03).

Conclusions

Our results highlight unmet needs for counselling and support. We identify some groups at risk of poor ART adherence, including women with markers of social vulnerability and those with low ART-related self-efficacy, who may benefit from targeted interventions.

Low-level depressive symptoms reduce maternal support for child cognitive development

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between low-level depressive symptoms in mothers and their support for child cognitive development.

METHODS

Participants included 913 low-income mothers of preschool-age children who were screened for maternal depression and interviewed about support for learning in the child's home environment.

RESULTS

Of the 770 mothers in the analysis, 21.5% reported low-level depressive symptoms (below the cutoff on the screening tool indicating clinically elevated symptoms). Logistic regression analyses revealed that children of mothers with low-level depressive symptoms were significantly less likely to experience six of seven types of support for learning compared with children of mothers with no depressive symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Results suggest that children whose mothers experience even low-level depressive symptoms are less likely to receive important supports for cognitive development and school readiness, pointing to the need for screening and interventions to address maternal depression at all levels of severity.

Psychiatric care of the older adult: an overview for primary care

As the population ages, primary care providers will be frequently called on to manage psychiatric disorders suffered by their older patients. This overview of delirium, dementia, depression, and alcohol and substance misuse highlights the common presentations and suggests initial approaches to treatment. The challenges facing caregivers are also discussed.

Office-based screening of common psychiatric conditions

Depression and anxiety disorders are common conditions with significant morbidity. Many screening tools of varying length have been well validated for these conditions in the office-based setting. Novel instruments, including Internet-based and computerized adaptive testing, may be promising tools in the future. The best evidence for cost-effectiveness currently is for screening of major depression linked with the collaborative care model for treatment. Data are not conclusive regarding comparative cost-effectiveness of screening for multiple conditions at once or for other conditions. This article reviews screening tools for depression and anxiety disorders in the ambulatory setting.

Health media use among childhood and young adult cancer survivors who smoke

PURPOSE

Promoting healthy behaviors may reduce the risk of co-morbidities among childhood and young adult (CYA) cancer survivors. Although behavioral interventions are one way to encourage such activities, there is increasing evidence that health media use-particularly health information seeking-also may influence health knowledge, beliefs, and behaviors. The current study explores patterns of health media use among survivors of CYA cancer. Our focus is on survivors who smoke and thus are at even greater risk of co-morbidities.

METHODS

We analyzed data from the Partnership for Health-2 study, a web-based smoking cessation intervention, to examine the prevalence of and factors associated with health media use (N = 329).

RESULTS

Nearly two thirds (65.3 %) of CYA survivors who smoke reported infrequent or no online health information seeking. Many reported never reading health sections of newspapers or general magazines (46.2 %) or watching health segments on local television news (32.3 %). Factors associated with health media use include education and employment, cancer-related distress, and smoking quit attempts.

CONCLUSIONS

Health information engagement is low among CYA survivors who smoke, particularly active seeking of health information online. Population subgroups differ in their media use patterns; some of these differences reflect communication inequalities, which have the potential to exacerbate health disparities. Clinicians have an opportunity to guide CYA survivors towards useful and reliable information sources. This guidance could help survivors fulfill their unmet information and support needs and may be particularly important for less educated survivors and other underserved populations.

Coexistence of urinary incontinence and major depressive disorder with health-related quality of life in older Americans with and without cancer

PURPOSE

This study evaluates the prevalence and factors associated with major depressive disorder (MDD) in a population of cancer survivors and the impact of co-occurring MDD and urinary incontinence (UI) on health-related quality of life (HRQOL).

METHODS

The prevalence of MDD risk among cancer survivors (breast, prostate, bladder, colorectal, lung, and endometrial/uterine cancers) and those without cancer was estimated using the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results Program-Medicare Health Outcomes Survey (SEER-MHOS) linked database (n = 9,282 with cancer/n = 289,744 without cancer). Risk for MDD was measured using three items from the Diagnostic Interview Schedule, and HRQOL was measured by the SF-36. UI was defined as self-reported leakage of urine causing a problem in previous 6 months. Factors associated with MDD were investigated using logistic regression, and the impact of co-occurring MDD and UI on HRQOL scores was determined using linear regression.

RESULTS

The prevalence of MDD risk ranged from 19.2 % for prostate to 34.1 % for lung. Lung cancer diagnosis was associated with risk of MDD. Being ≥5 years from diagnosis was associated with decreased risk of MDD (prevalence odds ratio (POR) = 0.82, 95 % confidence interval (95 % CI) 0.71, 0.95). The coexistence of both UI and MDD was associated with a decrease across HRQOL subscales; including 40 points on role-emotional (RE) score.

CONCLUSIONS

Cancer survivors reporting co-occurrence of UI and MDD experienced significant decrements in HRQOL.

IMPLICATIONS OF CANCER SURVIVORS

Understanding the combined effect of UI and MDD may help clinicians to better recognize and alleviate their effects on cancer survivors' HRQOL.

Comparison of a single self-assessment item with the PHQ-9 for detecting depression in general practice

BACKGROUND

Several factors need to be considered when selecting a screening tool for depression including accuracy, level of burden for patients and for staff to administer and follow-up.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore the utility of a single self-assessment item in identifying possible cases of depression in primary care by examining sensitivity and specificity with the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) at different thresholds.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional survey presented on a touchscreen computer.

PARTICIPANTS

Adult patients attending 12 urban general practices in Australia completed a health status questionnaire (n = 1004).

MAIN MEASURES

Depression was assessed by the PHQ-9 and a single self-assessment item. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were calculated for the single item using a PHQ-9 score of 10 or more as the criterion value.

KEY RESULTS

A total of 1004 participants (61% female, 48% aged 55 years or older) completed both the PHQ-9 and a single self-assessment item. When using a threshold of mild depression or greater, the single item had adequate specificity (76%, 95% CI: 71-80%), with 76 out of every 100 people defined as non-depressed by the PHQ-9 also identified as not depressed by the single item. Sensitivity was high (91%, 95% CI: 84-95%), with the single item identifying 91 out of every 100 true cases (as defined by the PHQ-9).

CONCLUSIONS

The single self-assessment item has high sensitivity and moderate specificity to identify possible cases of depression when used at a threshold of mild depression or greater.

Adult depression screening in Saudi primary care: prevalence, instrument and cost

BACKGROUND

By the year 2020 depression would be the second major cause of disability adjusted life years lost, as reported by the World Health Organization. Depression is a mental illness which causes persistent low mood, a sense of despair, and has multiple risk factors. Its prevalence in primary care varies between 15.3-22%, with global prevalence up to 13% and between 17-46% in Saudi Arabia. Despite several studies that have shown benefit of early diagnosis and cost-savings of up to 80%, physicians in primary care setting continue to miss out on 30-50% of depressed patients in their practices.

METHODS

A cross sectional study was conducted at three large primary care centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia aiming at estimating point prevalence of depression and screening cost among primary care adult patients, and comparing Patient Health Questionnaires PHQ-2 with PHQ-9. Adult individuals were screened using Arabic version of PHQ-2 and PHQ-9. PHQ-2 scores were correlated with PHQ-9 scores using linear regression. A limited cost-analysis and cost saving estimates of depression screening was done using the Human Capital approach.

RESULTS

Patients included in the survey analysis were 477, of whom 66.2% were females, 77.4% were married, and nearly 20% were illiterate. Patients exhibiting depressive symptoms on the basis of PHQ9 were 49.9%, of which 31% were mild, 13.4% moderate, 4.4% moderate-severe and 1.0% severe cases. Depression scores were significantly associated with female gender (p-value 0.049), and higher educational level (p-value 0.002). Regression analysis showed that PHQ-2 & PHQ-9 were strongly correlated R = 0.79, and R2 = 0.62. The cost-analysis showed savings of up to 500 SAR ($133) per adult patient screened once a year.

CONCLUSION

The point prevalence of screened depression is high in primary care visitors in Saudi Arabia. Gender and higher level of education were found to be significantly associated with screened depression. Majority of cases were mild to moderate, PHQ-2 was equivocal to PHQ 9 in utility and that screening for depression in primary care setting is cost saving.

Sleep problems and psychological distress in family members of patients with hematological malignancies in the Japanese population

Patients with cancer frequently suffer from insomnia symptoms, and additionally, their family members also often experience these symptoms. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of insomnia symptoms in both family members and patients with hematological malignancies. We conducted an observational cross-sectional study using a clinical self-reported questionnaire for sleep conditions, depressive symptoms (two-question method), and worries (five items that originated from the Brief Cancer Worry Inventory). One hundred twelve family members and 153 patients were investigated. A t test and Chi-square test were used to compare the prevalence of insomnia and depressive symptoms between family members and patients. Logistic regression was used to determine whether insomnia symptoms or worries related to patients' disease had an impact on depressive symptoms. The presence of insomnia symptoms in family members (87 %) was significantly higher than that in patients (60 %, p < 0.001). The prevalence of depressive mood and anhedonia in family members were 55 and 34 %, respectively, and these values were higher than those in patients (43 and 28 %, respectively). Insomnia symptoms and worries about present/prospective disease conditions were significantly associated with depressive mood (insomnia symptoms, odds ratios (OR) 4.3, confidence intervals (CI) 1.2-15.2, p = 0.025; worries, OR 4.4, CI 1.0-19.3, p = 0.048). Taken together, our results demonstrated that insomnia symptoms and depressive symptoms are highly prevalent in family members as well as in patients with hematological malignancies.

Association of experience with illness and end-of-life care with advance care planning in older adults

OBJECTIVES

To examine whether experiences with illness and end-of-life care are associated with readiness to participate in advance care planning (ACP).

DESIGN

Observational cohort study.

SETTING

Community.

PARTICIPANTS

Persons aged 60 and older recruited from physician offices and a senior center.

MEASUREMENTS

Participants were asked about personal experience with major illness or surgery and experience with others' end-of-life care, including whether they had made a medical decision for someone dying, knew someone who had a bad death due to too much or too little medical care, or experienced the death of a loved one who made end-of-life wishes known. Stages of change were assessed for specific ACP behaviors: completion of living will and healthcare proxy, communication with loved ones regarding life-sustaining treatments and quantity versus quality of life, and communication with physicians about these same topics. Stages of change included precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, and action or maintenance, corresponding to whether the participant was not ready to complete the behavior, was considering participation in the next 6 months, was planning participation within 30 days, or had already participated.

RESULTS

Of 304 participants, 84% had one or more personal experiences or experience with others. Personal experiences were not associated with greater readiness for most ACP behaviors. In contrast, having one or more experiences with others was associated with greater readiness to complete a living will and healthcare proxy, discuss life-sustaining treatment with loved ones, and discuss quantity versus quality of life with loved ones and with physicians.

CONCLUSION

Older individuals who have experience with end-of-life care of others demonstrate greater readiness to participate in ACP. Discussions with older adults regarding these experiences may be a useful tool in promoting ACP.

Perinatal psychiatric disorders: an overview

Perinatal mental illness has a significant implication on maternal health, birth outcomes, and the offspring's development. Prevalence estimates of perinatal psychiatric illnesses range widely, with substantial heterogeneity in different population studies, with a lower prevalence rate in high- rather than low- or middle-income countries. Because of the potential negative impact on maternal and child outcomes and the potential lability of these disorders, the perinatal period is a critical time to identify psychiatric illnesses. Thus, obstetricians and midwives play a crucial role in assessing women's mental health needs and to refer identified women promptly for multidisciplinary specialist assessment. However, there is still limited evidence on best practice assessment and management policies during pregnancy and postpartum. This review focuses on the prevalence of common perinatal mental disorders and antenatal screening policies to identify women at risk. The effect of these conditions and their management on pregnancy, fetal outcomes, and child development are discussed.

Diabetes and depression

Diabetes and depression occur together approximately twice as frequently as would be predicted by chance alone. Comorbid diabetes and depression are a major clinical challenge as the outcomes of both conditions are worsened by the other. Although the psychological burden of diabetes may contribute to depression, this explanation does not fully explain the relationship between these 2 conditions. Both conditions may be driven by shared underlying biological and behavioral mechanisms, such as hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activation, inflammation, sleep disturbance, inactive lifestyle, poor dietary habits, and environmental and cultural risk factors. Depression is frequently missed in people with diabetes despite effective screening tools being available. Both psychological interventions and antidepressants are effective in treating depressive symptoms in people with diabetes but have mixed effects on glycemic control. Clear care pathways involving a multidisciplinary team are needed to obtain optimal medical and psychiatric outcomes for people with comorbid diabetes and depression.

Dysphoria and anhedonia as risk factors for disability or death in older persons: implications for the assessment of geriatric depression

OBJECTIVES

Either dysphoria (sadness) or anhedonia (loss of interest in usually pleasurable activities) is required for a diagnosis of major depression. Although major depression is a known risk factor for disability in older persons, few studies have examined the relationship between the two core symptoms of major depression and disability or mortality. Our objective was to examine the relationship between these two core symptoms and time to disability or death.

METHODS

In a longitudinal cohort study, we used the nationally representative Health and Retirement Study to examine this relationship in 11,353 persons older than 62 years (mean: 73 years) followed for up to 13 years. Dysphoria and anhedonia were assessed with the Short Form Composite International Diagnostic Interview. Our outcome measure was time to either death or increased disability, defined as the new need for help in a basic activity of daily living. We adjusted for a validated disability risk index and other confounders.

RESULTS

Compared with subjects without either dysphoria or anhedonia, the risk for disability or death was not elevated in elders with dysphoria without anhedonia (adjusted hazard ratio [HR]: 1.11; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.91-1.36). The risk was elevated in those with anhedonia without dysphoria (HR: 1.30; 95% CI: 1.06-1.60) and those with both anhedonia and dysphoria (HR: 1.28; 95% CI: 1.13-1.46).

CONCLUSION

Our results highlight the need for clinicians to learn whether patients have lost interest in usually pleasurable activities, even if they deny sadness.

Risk for suicidal behaviors associated with PTSD, depression, and their comorbidity in the U.S. Army

BACKGROUND

Suicide rates have risen considerably in the United States Army in the past decade. Suicide risk is highest among those with past suicidality (suicidal ideation or attempts). The incidence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depressive illnesses has risen concurrently in the U.S. Army. We examined the relationship of PTSD and depression, independently and in combination, and rates of past-year suicidality in a representative sample of U.S. Army soldiers.

METHODS

This study used the DoD Survey of Health Related Behaviors Among Active Duty Military Personnel (DoD HRB) (N=5927). Probable PTSD and depression were assessed with the PTSD Checklist (PCL) and the 10-item short form of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), respectively. Past-year suicidality was assessed via self-report.

RESULTS

Six percent of Army service members reported suicidality within the past year. PTSD and MDD were each independently associated with past-year suicidality. Soldiers with both disorders were almost three times more likely to report suicidality within the past year than those with either diagnosis alone. Population-attributable risk proportions for PTSD, depression, and both disorders together were 24%, 29%, and 45%, respectively.

LIMITATIONS

The current study is subject to the limitations of a cross-sectional survey design and the self-report nature of the instruments used.

CONCLUSIONS

PTSD and depression are each associated with suicidality independently and in combination in the active duty component of the U.S. Army. Soldiers presenting with either but especially both disorders may require additional outreach and screening to decrease suicidal ideation and attempts.

Management of a patient with chronic low back pain and multiple health conditions using a pain mechanisms-based classification approach

STUDY DESIGN

Case report.

BACKGROUND

Pain can lead to a significant reduction in quality of life. A pain mechanisms-based classification scheme has been outlined to improve management of patients with pain, but studies describing its use are limited. Evidence for physical therapy interventions in those with chronic pain and multiple health conditions is also lacking. This case report describes management of a patient with chronic pain and multiple health conditions.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 29-year-old man presented with a 3-year history of low back pain and 11-month history of lower extremity paresthesia. Current health conditions included left-sided hemiparesis secondary to a stroke, pancreatic kidney transplant, left-sided blindness, and osteoporosis secondary to hyperparathyroidism. Inability to walk to school and sit through class, and pain-related sleep disruption were the primary activity and participation restrictions. Outcome measures included the numeric pain rating scale, global rating of change, Oswestry Disability Index, and pain medication usage. A score of 12 on the Leeds assessment of neuropathic symptoms and signs (LANSS) pain scale indicated the presence of neuropathic pain, but other pain mechanisms were also hypothesized to be present. Treatment was designed to improve patient goals considering these pain mechanisms.

OUTCOMES

The patient was seen for 20 visits over 6 months. Ten months after the initial evaluation, the patient's Oswestry Disability Index scores improved by more than 50% and the patient achieved all initially stated goals without pain medication.

DISCUSSION

A pain mechanisms-based approach assisted in the management of a patient with chronic pain and multiple health conditions. Using this approach may enhance clinical decision making when managing individuals with chronic pain.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapy, level 4.

Satisfaction with work-life balance and the career and retirement plans of US oncologists

PURPOSE

To evaluate satisfaction with work-life balance (WLB) and career plans of US oncologists.

METHODS

The American Society of Clinical Oncology conducted a survey of US oncologists evaluating satisfaction with WLB and career plans between October 2012 and March 2013. The sample included equal numbers of men and women from all career stages.

RESULTS

Of 2,998 oncologists contacted, 1,490 (49.7%) returned surveys. From 1,117 oncologists (37.3% of overall sample) completing full-length surveys, we evaluated satisfaction with WLB and career plans among the 1,058 who were not yet retired. The proportion of oncologists satisfied with WLB (n = 345; 33.4%) ranked lower than that reported for all other medical specialties in a recent national study. Regarding career plans, 270 oncologists (26.5%) reported a moderate or higher likelihood of reducing their clinical work hours in the next 12 months, 351 (34.3%) indicated a moderate or higher likelihood of leaving their current position within 24 months, and 273 (28.5%) planned to retire before 65 years of age. Multivariable analyses found women oncologists (odds ratio [OR], 0.458; P < .001) and those who devoted greater time to patient care (OR for each additional hour, 0.977; P < .001) were less likely to be satisfied with WLB. Satisfaction with WLB and burnout were the strongest predictors of intent to reduce clinical work hours and leave current position on multivariable analysis.

CONCLUSION

Satisfaction with WLB among US oncologists seems lower than for other medical specialties. Dissatisfaction with WLB shows a strong relationship with plans to reduce hours and leave current practice. Given the pending US oncologist shortage, additional studies exploring interactions among WLB, burnout, and career satisfaction and their impact on career and retirement plans are warranted.

Alcohol use and positive screening results for depression and anxiety are highly prevalent among Chinese children with strabismus

PURPOSE

To study associations between strabismus and alcohol use, anxiety, and depression among 10- to 17-year-old children in Guangdong, southern China.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional, population-based study.

METHODS

Among 7537 children aged 6-17 years from 9 randomly selected primary and middle schools, ocular alignment was assessed with the Hirschberg light reflex, cover-uncover testing, and alternate cover testing at distance (6 m) and near (40 cm). Additionally, 4000 children (53.1%) aged 10+ years received self-administered questionnaires containing screening questions on alcohol use, anxiety, and depression.

RESULTS

Examinations were completed on 7464 of 7537 subjects (99.0%), including 3928 boys (52.6%), with a mean age of 11.1 ± 1.8 years. The prevalence of any strabismus, including exotropia (2.7%), esotropia (0.2%), and intermittent exotropia (3.9%), was 6.8%. Strabismus was more prevalent in urban students (7.3%) and female subjects (7.4%) compared to rural students (6.0%) and male subjects (6.2%) (all P < .05). In multivariate regression models, any strabismus was associated with older age and rural vs urban residence. Among 3903 children (97.6%) answering questionnaires, history of alcohol use (62.3% vs 36.3%) and positive screening responses for depression (26.0% vs 11.6%) and anxiety (10.3% vs 4.9%) were significantly (P < .01 for all) more common among children with strabismus.

CONCLUSION

These Chinese children with strabismus had a significantly higher prevalence of alcohol use and possible markers of emotional problems than children without strabismus. Further research should focus on the appropriateness of classifying surgical treatment for strabismus as "cosmetic" (ineligible for reimbursement) under China's rural health insurance.

A team approach to systematic behavioral screening and intervention

OBJECTIVES

Unhealthy behaviors are responsible for most chronic disease, ample healthcare costs, and around 40% of deaths. This study assessed patient satisfaction and behavioral outcomes for a program that enables healthcare settings to deliver evidence-based, cost-saving behavioral screening and intervention (BSI) services, as recommended by the US Preventive Services Task Force and others.

STUDY DESIGN

Pre-post program evaluation.

METHODS

Thirty-one diverse primary care clinics and 2 other sites participated. Over 110,000 patients completed multibehavioral screening questionnaires. Those with positive alcohol or drug screens met with dedicated, on-site health educators for further assessment, and then received either reinforcement, brief intervention, or referral. Over 300 patients completed satisfaction questionnaires during year 3 of the program. A pseudo-randomly selected group of 675 patients participated in a 6-month follow-up telephone interview. In addition, for a short time in a pilot project at 3 clinics, 29 patients received depression screening, collaborative care, and behavioral activation, and 22 completed a 3-month follow-up telephone interview.

RESULTS

Mean patient satisfaction scores for all services exceeded 4.2 on a 5-point scale. Over 6 months, binge drinking episodes declined by over 20% for most subgroups. Recent marijuana use decreased by 15%. Depression symptom scores decreased by 55%.

CONCLUSIONS

With intensive training and ongoing support, cost-efficient paraprofessionals can deliver effective alcohol, drug, and depression screening and intervention services in busy healthcare settings. The approach holds promise for systematically addressing on a population-wide basis a variety of important behavioral health determinants and reducing related healthcare costs.

The relationship between positive or negative phrasing and patients' coping with lateral epicondylitis

BACKGROUND

Research suggests that phrases with negative content can affect patients' response to medical procedures and how they cope with medical illnesses. We hypothesized that patients with lateral epicondylitis who describe their condition in positive phrases cope better than those who do not.

METHODS

We prospectively followed up 91 patients with lateral epicondylitis for 12 months. The patients indicated their baseline coping status based on the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) and were discharged with a wait-and-see policy. During follow-up interviews, the patients described the nature of their condition in their own words and were then categorized into either positive or negative phrasing groups. We compared these two groups regarding current coping status and whether they had sought additional treatment. We also analyzed for the factors associated with these outcomes.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in baseline PCS scores between the two groups. At follow-up, patients in the positive phrasing group (n = 62) had significantly lower PCS scores and were less likely to seek additional treatment than those in the negative phrasing group (n = 29). Multivariable analyses showed that positive phrasing and low pain levels were independently associated with improvement in PCS scores and that negative phrasing and depression were independently associated with patients' seeking additional treatment.

CONCLUSION

Patients' positive phrasing about their condition are associated with improvement in their coping status and with less use of medical resources in the case of lateral epicondylitis. This study suggests that patients with more positive attitudes toward their illness cope and comply better when a wait-and-see treatment is recommended by their physicians.

Risk of future offense among probationers with co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders

The criminal justice system is the primary service delivery system for many adults with drug and alcohol dependence, mental health, and other health service needs. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between risk of future offense, mental health status and co-occurring disorders in a large substance abuse diversion probationer population. A purposive sample of 2,077 probationers completed an assessment to screen for mental health disorders, substance use disorders, risk of future crime and violence, and several demographic characteristics. Probationers who screened positive for co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders were significantly more likely to be at higher risk of future crime and violence compared to probationers who screened positive for only substance use, only a mental health disorder, or no substance use or mental health disorder. Implications for substance use and mental health service delivery are discussed, and recommendations are made for further research.

Risk factors for depression in patients undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation

Despite the prevalence and known adverse impacts of depression after hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), little is known about the trajectory of depression occurring after HCT, or which pretransplantation risk factors might help predict new or worsening post-HCT depression. This secondary analysis evaluated the relationships between pre-HCT patient-reported outcomes and demographic characteristics and post-HCT depression. A total of 228 adult HCT patients were evaluated pre-HCT (T1) and again at 6 to 7 weeks post-HCT (T2), using touch-screen computers in the transplantation clinic during participation in a larger trial. Measures evaluated included the Symptom Distress Scale, the EORTC QLQ-C30 for quality of life, a single-item pain intensity question, and the Patient Health Questionnaire 9 for measurement of depression. At T1, rates of depression were quite low, with only 6% of participants reporting moderate or higher depression. At T2, however, the prevalence of moderate or higher depression was 31%. We observed a strong linear relationship in PHQ-9 scores between T1 and T2 (P < .0001). Depression score at T1 was a significant predictor of depression score at T2 (P = .03), as was poorer emotional function at T1 (P < .01). Our results indicate that post-HCT depression is common, even in patients with a low pre-HCT depression score. Frequent screening for symptoms of depression at critical time points, including 6 to 7 weeks post-HCT, are needed in this population, followed by referrals to supportive care as appropriate.

Ability of the physician well-being index to identify residents in distress

BACKGROUND

Resident well-being impacts competence, professionalism, career satisfaction, and the quality of care delivered to patients.

OBJECTIVE

We established normative scores and reported evidence of relationship between the Physician Well-Being Index (PWBI) score to other variables and consequence validity for the PWBI in a national sample of residents, and evaluated the performance of the index after substituting the original fatigue item with an item not associated with driving a car.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional survey study of a national sample of 20 475 residents. The survey included the PWBI, instruments assessing mental quality of life (QOL) and fatigue, and items on recent suicidal ideation and medical error. Fisher exact test or Wilcoxon/2-sample t test procedures were used with a 5% type I error rate and a 2-sided alternative.

RESULTS

Of 7560 residents who opened the e-mail to participate in the study, 1701 (22.5%) completed the survey. Residents with low mental QOL, high fatigue, or recent suicidal ideation were more likely to endorse each of the PWBI items and a greater number of total items (all P < .001). At a threshold score of ≥ 5, the PWBI's specificity for identifying residents with low mental QOL, high fatigue, or recent suicidal ideation was 83.6%. PWBI score also stratified residents' self-reported medical errors. The PWBI performed similarly using either fatigue item.

CONCLUSIONS

The 7-item PWBI appears to be a useful screening index to identify residents whose degree of distress may negatively impact the quality of care they deliver.

Burnout among U.S. medical students, residents, and early career physicians relative to the general U.S. population

PURPOSE

To compare the prevalence of burnout and other forms of distress across career stages and the experiences of trainees and early career (EC) physicians versus those of similarly aged college graduates pursuing other careers.

METHOD

In 2011 and 2012, the authors conducted a national survey of medical students, residents/fellows, and EC physicians (≤ 5 years in practice) and of a probability-based sample of the general U.S. population. All surveys assessed burnout, symptoms of depression and suicidal ideation, quality of life, and fatigue.

RESULTS

Response rates were 35.2% (4,402/12,500) for medical students, 22.5% (1,701/7,560) for residents/fellows, and 26.7% (7,288/27,276) for EC physicians. In multivariate models that controlled for relationship status, sex, age, and career stage, being a resident/fellow was associated with increased odds of burnout and being a medical student with increased odds of depressive symptoms, whereas EC physicians had the lowest odds of high fatigue. Compared with the population control samples, medical students, residents/fellows, and EC physicians were more likely to be burned out (all P < .0001). Medical students and residents/fellows were more likely to exhibit symptoms of depression than the population control samples (both P < .0001) but not more likely to have experienced recent suicidal ideation.

CONCLUSIONS

Training appears to be the peak time for distress among physicians, but differences in the prevalence of burnout, depressive symptoms, and recent suicidal ideation are relatively small. At each stage, burnout is more prevalent among physicians than among their peers in the U.S. population.

Screening for depression in Parkinson's disease: the performance of two screening questions

BACKGROUND

the study objective was to evaluate the validity of the two questions recommended by the UK. National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence for depression screening in Parkinson's disease (PD).

METHODS

one hundred and twenty patients attending a PD out-patient clinic were interviewed in a standardised manner using relevant sections of the Present State Examination- Schedules for Clinical Assessment in Neuropsychiatry to identify depression according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (4th edition) criteria. Participants then completed the two depression screening questions and the 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15).

RESULTS

sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values of the two questions and GDS-15 for major and minor depression combined were calculated for different cut-off scores and a receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis was conducted. A threshold of one or more positive responses to the two screening questions gave a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 84% (positive predictive value 54%, negative predictive value 100%). The area under the ROC curve was 0.95. The optimal cut-off for the GDS-15 was 5/6, which gave a sensitivity of 84% and specificity of 89% (positive predictive value 59%, negative predictive value 97%), and the area under the curve was 0.92.

CONCLUSION

this study shows that the two depression screening questions can be used as an initial screen for depression in patients with PD who have no significant cognitive impairment. A positive response to either of the questions would indicate that further diagnostic assessment may be warranted.

A national comparison of burnout and work-life balance among internal medicine hospitalists and outpatient general internists

BACKGROUND

General internists suffer higher rates of burnout and lower satisfaction with work-life balance than most specialties, but the impact of inpatient vs outpatient practice location is unclear.

METHODS

Physicians in the American Medical Association Physician Masterfile were previously surveyed about burnout, depression, suicidal ideation, quality of life, fatigue, work-life balance, career plans, and health behaviors. We extracted and compared data for these variables for the 130 internal medicine hospitalists and 448 outpatient general internists who participated. Analyses were adjusted for age, sex, hours worked, and practice setting.

RESULTS

There were 52.3% of the hospitalists and 54.5% of the outpatient internists affected by burnout (P = 0.86). High scores on the emotional exhaustion subscale (43.8% vs 48.1%, P = 0.71) and on the depersonalization subscale (42.3% vs 32.7%, P = 0.17) were common but similar in frequency in the 2 groups. Hospitalists were more likely to score low on the personal accomplishment subscale (20.3% vs 9.6%, P = 0.04). There were no differences in symptoms of depression (40.3% for hospitalists vs 40.0% for outpatient internists, P = 0.73) or recent suicidality (9.2% vs 5.8%, P = 0.15). Rates of reported recent work-home conflict were similar (48.4% vs 41.3%, P = 0.64), but hospitalists were more likely to agree that their work schedule leaves enough time for their personal life and family (50.0% vs 42.0%, P = 0.007).

CONCLUSIONS

Burnout was common among both hospitalists and outpatient general internists, although hospitalists were more satisfied with work-life balance. A better understanding of the causes of distress and identification of solutions for all internists is needed.

Quality of life of surgical oncology residents and fellows across Europe

BACKGROUND

Data are currently lacking regarding the quality of life of surgical oncology (SO) trainees. We sought to assess the training conditions and quality of life of SO residents and fellows across Europe.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Members of the European Society for Surgical Oncology were invited to complete a Web-based survey that included a questionnaire specifically designed for SO trainees. Demographics, timing, and incentive to choose for SO, quality of life, and symptoms of fatigue, sleepiness, depression, and burnout, as well as self-reported medical errors, were assessed using validated instruments.

RESULTS

The survey was completed by 109 residents and 53 fellows (mean age 34.6 ± 8.2). The mean Linear Analog Scale Assessment score for quality of life was 34.8 ± 8.6 out of a possible 50. A low level of fatigue was declared by 60% of the trainees. However, 44% scored an abnormal Epworth Sleepiness score, which was mostly related to in-hospital work time and lack of educational programs. High positive screenings regarding depression (51%) and burnout (25%) were associated with resident status and lack of mentorship, respectively. Major medical errors during the last 3 months were self-reported by 20% of the trainees.

CONCLUSIONS

In Europe, the perceived quality of life is overall acceptable among trainees in SO. However, the present study demonstrated a high level of sleepiness, depression, and burnout symptoms. Additional work is required to identify and overcome the underlying causes of these symptoms.

A study of multiple behavioral addictions in a substance abuse sample

Behavioral addictions (BAs) are underrecognized, even in addiction programs. We assessed BAs in a substance abuse sample (n = 51; data collection 2011-2012). A self-report Behavioral Addictions Screen, assessing eight BAs, was administered using an automated telephone system. Most endorsed at least one BA, with the most common shopping/spending; eating; work; computer/internet; and sex/pornography. Lowest were gambling, self-harm, and exercise. Some BAs were correlated with others. Gender, ethnicity, age, and positive depression and posttraumatic stress disorder screens were associated with specific BAs. Future research could address interpretation of "addiction," comparison to diagnostic interviews, relationship to substance use disorders, and larger samples.

Curtailment: a method to reduce the length of self-report questionnaires while maintaining diagnostic accuracy

Minimizing the respondent burden and maximizing the classification accuracy of tests is essential for efficacious screening for common mental health disorders. In previous studies, curtailment of tests has been shown to reduce average test length considerably, without loss of accuracy. In the current study, we simulate Deterministic (DC) and Stochastic (SC) Curtailment for three self-report questionnaires for common mental health disorders, to study the potential gains in efficiency that can be obtained in screening for these disorders. The curtailment algorithms were applied in an existing dataset of item scores of 502 help-seeking participants. Results indicate that DC reduces test length by up to 37%, and SC reduces test length by up to 46%, with only very slight decreases in diagnostic accuracy. Compared to an item response theory based adaptive test with similar test length, SC provided better diagnostic accuracy. Consequently, curtailment may be useful in improving the efficiency of mental health self-report questionnaires.