Relationship Between Depressive Symptoms, Anemia, and Iron Status in Older Residents From a National Survey Population

• DOI: 10.1097/psy.0b013e3182414f7d
• Publication Date: 2012-01-28T04:24:23Z
• Authors: Robert Stewart; Vasant Hirani
• Keywords: Soluble transferrin receptor; Depression; Cross-sectional study; Multivitamin

Objective To investigate the association between iron deficiency status and depressive symptoms in a national community sample of older people. Methods Cross-sectional data were analyzed from 1875 participants 65 years who had participated 2005 Health Survey for England. Serum hemoglobin (Hb), ferritin, transferrin receptor levels (Geriatric Depression Scale) been measured. Covariates included age, sex, occupation, multivitamin intake, smoking status, body mass index, hypertension, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer. Results Depressive associated with anemia (Hb <12.0 g/dL women <13.0 men; present 10.8%; odds ratio [OR] = 1.53 [95% confidence interval 1.08–2.18]) after adjustment social class, but this was reduced substantially further physical health (OR 1.14). Low serum ferritin level (<45 ng/mL; 21.6%) full 1.37 1.03–1.81]). Linear models, however, revealed significant associations higher number lower Hb not levels. Conclusions Iron commonly co-occurs people, although is accounted by may primarily reflect chronic disease.