Stroke, vascular risk factors and depression

Abstract

Background Stroke, hypertension and diabetes are common in older Caribbean-born populations in the UK who may be at risk of depression secondary to vascular disease. Aims We examined the association between stroke, vascular risk factors and depression in a community-based Caribbean-born population aged 55–75 years. Method Vascular risk factors were identified by interview, examination and blood tests. Depression was categorised using the Geriatric Depression Scale. Disablement was assessed as a potential mediating factor. Results Physical illness and disablement were strongly associated with depression, independent of disablement. Previous stroke was associated with depression, independent of disablement. No vascular risk factors were associated with depression. Conclusions The risk of depression associated with stroke was not explained by disablement. However, the hypothesis that vascular risk factors are important in the genesis of depression was not supported.