In a nutshell
The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between iron deficiency and depression in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The main finding of the study was that there was an association between iron deficiency and depression and reduced quality of life in T1D.
Some background
Iron deficiency (ID) is the most common form of malnutrition worldwide. Iron is essential for making red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen and other nutrients around the body. Ferritin is another test that detects ID. The degree of ID in people with depression was found to be associated with the severity of their depressive symptoms.
For an unknown reason, patients with T1D are at higher risk of ID. They are also at higher risk of developing depression because of their chronic illness.
The relationship between depression, quality of life, treatment satisfaction and ID in patients with T1D is not known.
Methods & findings
This study included 109 patients with T1D. Blood tests were given to test for ID. Standardized questionnaires were used to measure depression, quality of life and treatment satisfaction.
Decreased iron levels and ferritin levels were observed in 16.8% and 26.7% of patients. Depression was observed in 40-42% of patients. Personal goals and treatment satisfaction scores were higher in patients who did not have low iron status. There was a significant association between low iron status and depression in these patients.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that there was a high rate of depression among patients with T1D. Depression was associated with low iron.
The fine print
This study included a very small number of patients. Larger studies are required for better evidence.
Published By :
Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice
Date :
Mar 29, 2019
