Depression in Brazilian farmers : prevalence and associated factors.

Abstract

Background: The unique characteristics of rural areas and agricultural work can contribute to the genesis of diseases, including mental disorders such as depression.

Aims: To estimate the prevalence of and factors associated with depression symptoms in Brazilian farmers. Methods: A cross-sectional epidemiological study involving 784 farmers of the state of Espırito Santo/Brazil was carried out. Depression was identified using the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview. Hierarchical logistic regression was used to assess the associated factors.

Results: The prevalence of depression symptoms among farmers was 16.8% (n 1⁄4 132). Of those experiencing symptoms, 6.1% (n 1⁄4 48) we’re currently experiencing a depressive episode, and 10.7% (n 1⁄4 84)

a recurrent depressive episodes. The associated factors were: female gender (OR 1.63; 95% CI 1.04–2.54), not owning the land (OR 1.79; 95% CI 1.11–2.89), professional dissatisfaction (OR 1.99; 95% CI 1.18–3.35), previous pesticide poisoning (OR 2.87; 95% CI 1.45–5.67), complex multimorbidity (OR 1.95; 95% CI 1.15–3.31) and occurrence of previous depressive episodes (OR 9.83; 95% CI 4.39–21.99). Conclusions: A high prevalence of depression symptoms was identified among rural workers. Sociodemographic, occupational, clinical, and professional dissatisfaction factors were associated with a higher risk of depression symptoms in this population.