Does depression diagnosis and antidepressant prescribing vary by location? Analysis of ethnic density associations using a large primary-care dataset.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Studies have linked ethnic differences in depression rates with neighbourhood ethnic density although results have not been conclusive. We looked at this using a novel approach analysing whole population data covering just over one million GP patients in four London boroughs.

Method

Using a dataset of GP records for all patients registered in Lambeth, Hackney, Tower Hamlets and Newham in 2013 we investigated new diagnoses of depression and antidepressant use for: Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, black Caribbean and black African patients. Neighbourhood effects were assessed independently of GP practice using a cross-classified multilevel model.

Results

Black and minority ethnic groups are up to four times less likely to be newly diagnosed with depression or

SUBMITTER: Schofield P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4828938 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature