Depression: A Major Psychosocial-Lifestyle Sequela of Cardiac Disease Diagnosis

Even the suspicion of cardiac disease diagnosis tends to have significant psychological, physical, and social repercussions for patients. The present study explored the psychosocial and physical lifestyle changes in stable, ambulant patients with suspected or newly diagnosed cardiac disease. This cross-sectional study of cardiac clinic attendees at a public health institution was conducted between July and August 2015. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with eligible patients (aged at least 18 years, not confused, and able to undergo a 20-minute interview) following patient consent. Collected data were analysed using descriptive and analytic methods (chi-squared test and multiple linear regression) using a 5% error and 95% confidence interval. The prevalence of depression increased from 1.7% pre-diagnosis to 36.6% following suspected or confirmed diagnosis. Among demographic variables, only gender was associated with depression, with females being more affected. Diabetes, stress, and eating seafood and sugary foods were associated with increased depression, while exercising at least three times per week was associated with diminished depression. Functional activities (social, communicative, and physical) worsened, with significant differences between pre- and post-diagnosis. Depression was relatively common in the sample, particularly among females. There is a need for increased focus on the development of interventions addressing depression, especially those encouraging physical exercise for optimum management of patients diagnosed with cardiac disease.