Prevalence and age patterns of depression in the United Kingdom. A population-based study
Open accessAbstract
METHODS: A representative sample of the UK population (n=17,152) from the European Health Interview Survey of 2014 was included in the analyses. The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-8) was used to assess the prevalence of depressive symptoms and of probable depressive disorder. Prevalence estimates (95%CI) were calculated. The association between prevalence and age was assessed using multivariable multinomial logistic and logistic regression models. All analyses were carried out for the total sample and stratified by sex. RESULTS: The prevalence of depressive symptoms ranged from 11.3% (10.6-11.9) for mild, to 3.3% (3.0-3.7) for severe symptoms. The prevalence of probable depressive disorder was 7.5% (95%CI: 7.0-8.0). A significantly higher prevalence of probable depressive disorder was found in those aged 45 to 59 years old compared with those aged 16 to 29. For the prevalence of severe depressive symptoms those age differences were even higher: 2.55 times higher (5.38 for men and 1.75 for women). LIMITATIONS: The cross-sectional design precludes stablishing the direction of the relationship between age and the prevalence. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence and age patterns of depression in the UK were described. A peak in the prevalence was identified during middle adulthood. These results could serve as a reference for the monitoring of depression in the UK and the development of preventive strategies, particularly in the high-risk population groups identified.
AI snapshot
Written from the paper’s full text.
TL;DR
In a nationally representative UK sample from the 2013–2015 European Health Interview Survey, the prevalence of probable depressive disorder (PHQ-8≥10) was 7.5%, with mild, moderate, and severe depressive symptoms at 11.3%, 4.2%, and 3.3%. Prevalence peaked at ages 45–59, especially for severe symptoms and among men.
Key findings
- Overall prevalence was 11.3% (95%CI 10.6–11.9) for mild depressive symptoms, 4.2% (95%CI 3.8–4.6) for moderate, 3.3% (95%CI 3.0–3.7) for severe, and 7.5% (95%CI 7.0–8.0) for probable depressive disorder; by sex, probable depressive disorder was 6.2% in men and 8.6% in women.
- Probable depressive disorder was higher in the 45–59 age group than in the 16–29 group in the total sample (adjusted OR 1.82, 95%CI 1.32–2.50) and in men (adjusted OR 2.84, 95%CI 1.57–5.14); among women, differences were significant only at the bivariable level.
- Significant age differences were found only for severe depressive symptoms: total sample 45–59 vs 16–29 adjusted ROR 2.55 (95%CI 1.60–4.06); men 45–59 vs 16–29 adjusted ROR 5.38 (95%CI 2.51–11.53) for severe symptoms and 1.76 (95%CI 1.15–2.71) for mild symptoms.
- Mild depressive symptoms were high in those aged 75+ (9.3% men, 12.9% women) and in younger women (14.4%).
Methods
- Cross-sectional study using the UK edition of the second wave of the European Health Interview Survey (EHIS), conducted 2013–2015; 17,706 non-institutionalized individuals completed the PHQ-8, and 554 (3.1%) with missing independent variables were excluded, leaving 17,152 for analysis.
- Depressive symptoms were categorized as mild (PHQ-8 5–9), moderate (10–14), and severe (≥15); probable depressive disorder was defined as PHQ-8≥10. Age was categorized as 16–29, 30–44, 45–59, 60–74, and 75+ years.
- Multinomial logistic regression modeled depressive symptom severity and binary logistic regression modeled probable depressive disorder; models adjusted for interview method, birthplace, urbanization, BMI, and social support, plus sex in total-sample models. Sampling weights and Taylor series linearization were applied; significance was set at 0.01.
Limitations
- The paper states that PHQ-8 is a screening tool rather than a clinical interview, that interview mode varied (approximately 25% face-to-face and 75% telephone), that people with mental disorders may be less likely to participate and results may underestimate true prevalence, and that socioeconomic status, education, marital status, ethnicity, and family history of depression were not included.
- Evident from the text: the cross-sectional design cannot establish causality or temporal ordering between age and depression.
- Evident from the text: BMI was derived from self-reported height and weight, and the reported sample sizes vary across the text and tables (17,706 completed PHQ-8, 17,152 analyzed, and Table 1 total n=17,652), which complicates precision about the final analytic sample.
Model-written summary. Check it against the paper before relying on it.
Integrity signals
Registry
Cites
Statistics
Claims the paper makes
0 of 53 cited sources checked · 0 supported · 0 flagged
- Findingown data
The prevalence of severe depressive symptoms in the UK was 3.3% (95%CI 3.0-3.7).
“The prevalence of depressive symptoms ranged from 11.3% (95%CI 10.6-11.9)for mild depressive symptoms, 4.2% (95%CI: 3.8-4.6)for moderate depressive symptoms and 3.3% (95%CI: 3.0-3.7)for severe depressive symptoms (Supplementary file 1).”
- Also stated in: § Discussion · plain
“In conclusion, our study shows the prevalence of depressive symptoms (from 11.3% with mild symptoms to 3.3% with severe symptoms) and of probable depressive disorder (7.5%) in the UK.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Also stated in: § Discussion · plain
- Findingown data
A higher prevalence of severe symptoms was found among those between 45 to 59 years old compared with those aged 16 to 29 years (aROR: 2.55, 95%CI: 1.60-4.06).
“A higher prevalence of severe symptoms was found among those between 45 to 59 years old compared with those aged 16 to 29 years (aROR: 2.55 95%CI: 1.60-4.06).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
The prevalence of mild depressive symptoms in the UK was 11.3% (95%CI 10.6-11.9).
“The prevalence of depressive symptoms ranged from 11.3% (95%CI 10.6-11.9)for mild depressive symptoms, 4.2% (95%CI: 3.8-4.6)for moderate depressive symptoms and 3.3% (95%CI: 3.0-3.7)for severe depressive symptoms (Supplementary file 1).”
- Also stated in: § Discussion · plain
“In conclusion, our study shows the prevalence of depressive symptoms (from 11.3% with mild symptoms to 3.3% with severe symptoms) and of probable depressive disorder (7.5%) in the UK.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Also stated in: § Discussion · plain
- Findingown data
The group aged between 45 and 59 years had a significantly higher prevalence of probable depressive disorder than the younger population in the total sample (aOR: 1.82, 95%CI: 1.32-2.50).
“The group aged between 45 and 59 years had a significantly higher prevalence than the younger population in the total sample (aOR: 1.82, 95%CI: 1.32-2.50)and in men (aOR: 2.84, 95%CI: 1.57-5.14).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
The prevalence of severe depressive symptoms was higher in middle-aged men (45-59 years) than in younger men (16-29 years) (aROR: 5.38, 95%CI: 2.51-11.53).
“The prevalence of mild depressive symptoms (aROR: 1.76, 95%CI: 1.15-2.71)and severe depressive symptoms (aROR: 5.38, 95%CI: 2.51-11.53)was higher in middle-age men (45-59 years) than in younger men (16-29 years).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
- Findingown data
The prevalence of probable depressive disorder in the UK was 7.5% (95%CI 7.0-8.0).
“The prevalence of a probable depressive disorder was 7.5% (95%CI: 7.0-8.0).”
- Also stated in: § Discussion · plain
“In conclusion, our study shows the prevalence of depressive symptoms (from 11.3% with mild symptoms to 3.3% with severe symptoms) and of probable depressive disorder (7.5%) in the UK.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Also stated in: § Discussion · plain
- Findingown data
Among men, lower prevalence was found in the younger population (16 to 29 years old) both in all levels of depressive symptoms and in probable depressive disorder.
“Among men, lower prevalence was found in the younger population (16 to 29 years old) both in all levels of depressive symptoms and in probable depressive disorder.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
The prevalence of mild depressive symptoms was higher in middle-aged men (45-59 years) than in younger men (16-29 years) (aROR: 1.76, 95%CI: 1.15-2.71).
“The prevalence of mild depressive symptoms (aROR: 1.76, 95%CI: 1.15-2.71)and severe depressive symptoms (aROR: 5.38, 95%CI: 2.51-11.53)was higher in middle-age men (45-59 years) than in younger men (16-29 years).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
The prevalence of probable depressive disorder (PHQ-8≥10) was related with age.
“The prevalence of probable depressive disorder (PHQ-8≥10) was also related with age (Table 4).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
A higher prevalence of probable depressive disorder was observed for those aged 45 to 59 for both sexes.
“A higher prevalence of probable depressive disorder was observed for those aged 45 to 59 for both sex (Figure 1).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
The prevalence of moderate depressive symptoms in the UK was 4.2% (95%CI 3.8-4.6).
“The prevalence of depressive symptoms ranged from 11.3% (95%CI 10.6-11.9)for mild depressive symptoms, 4.2% (95%CI: 3.8-4.6)for moderate depressive symptoms and 3.3% (95%CI: 3.0-3.7)for severe depressive symptoms (Supplementary file 1).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
For men, statistically significant differences in the prevalence of mild and severe depressive symptoms related to age were found.
“For men, statistically significant differences in the prevalence of mild and severe depressive symptoms related to age were found.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Among women, significantly higher prevalence of severe symptoms (ROR: 1.78, 95%CI: 1.04-3.06) was found at the bivariable level in the middle-aged (45-59 years) group compared with younger (16-29 years) women.
“Among women, significantly higher prevalence of severe symptoms (ROR: 1.78, 95%CI: 1.04-3.06)was found at the bivariable level in the middle-aged (45-59 years) group compared with younger (16-29 years) women.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
The group aged between 45 and 59 years had a significantly higher prevalence of probable depressive disorder than the younger population in men (aOR: 2.84, 95%CI: 1.57-5.14).
“The group aged between 45 and 59 years had a significantly higher prevalence than the younger population in the total sample (aOR: 1.82, 95%CI: 1.32-2.50)and in men (aOR: 2.84, 95%CI: 1.57-5.14).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Significant differences related to age were only found in severe depressive symptoms.
“Significant differences related to age were only found in severe depressive symptoms (Table 3).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Among UK men aged 30 to 44, the prevalence of depression was 8.9% (95% CI 7.2-10.8).
“30 to 44 (n=1,282) 8.9 (7.2-10-8) 2.8 (1.9-4.1) 2.9 (2.1-4.1) 5.7 (4.4-7.4)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
A significantly higher prevalence was found in most cases only for the group between 45 to 59 years old.
“It should be noted that a higher crude prevalence was found in women than men in all age groups and a significantly higher prevalence was found in most of the cases only for the group between 45 to 59 years old.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Among UK men aged 60 to 74, the prevalence of depression was 8.1% (95% CI 7.0-9.4).
“60 to 74 (n=2,663) 8.1 (7.0-9.4) 3.7 (2.9-4.6) 2.0 (1.5-2.7) 5.7 (4.7-6.8)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Among UK men, the prevalence of depression was 9.3% (95% CI 8.5-10.2).
“Men (n=7, 515) 9.3 (8.5-10.2) 3.5 (3.0-4.1) 2.7 (2.3-3.2) 6.2 (5.6-6.9)”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Among UK men aged 75 or more, the prevalence of depression was 10.2% (95% CI 8.3-12.05).
“75 or more (n=1,125) 10.2 (8.3-12.05) 2.9 (2.0-4.2) 1.4 (0.8-2.7) 4.3 (3.1-5.9)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Among UK women aged 45 to 59, the prevalence of depression was 12.5% (95% CI 11.1-14.0).
“45 to 59 (n=2,604) 12.5 (11.1-14.0) 5.5 (4.6-6.6) 6.0 (5.0-7.1) 11.5 (10.1-12.9)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Among UK men aged 16 to 29, the prevalence of depression was 7.7% (95% CI 5.4-10.8).
“Age 16 to 29 (n=489) 7.7 (5.4-10.8) 2.6 (1.4-5.0) 1.2 (0.6-2.4) 3.8 (2.3-6.2)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Among UK women aged 60 to 74, the prevalence of depression was 12.3% (95% CI 11.0-13.8).
“60 to 74 (n=3,111) 12.3 (11.0-13.8) 4.0 (3.3-4.8) 3.0 (2.4-3.7) 6.9 (6.0-8.0)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Among UK women, the prevalence of depression was 12.9% (95% CI 12.0-13.8).
“Women (n=9,637) 12.9 (12.0-13.8) 4.8 (4.2-5.3) 3.8 (3.3-4.4) 8.6 (7.9-9.3)”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Among UK women aged 30 to 44, the prevalence of depression was 12.5% (95% CI 10.8-14.3).
“30 to 44 (n=1,858) 12.5 (10.8-14.3) 4.5 (3.5-5.8) 2.9 (2.1-3.9) 7.4 (6.1-8.9)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Among UK women aged 16 to 29, the prevalence of depression was 14.4% (95% CI 11.6-17.8).
“Age 16 to 29 (n=716) 14.4 (11.6-17.8) 4.6 (3.1-6.9) 3.4 (2.1-5.5) 8.1 (5.9-10.8)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Among UK men aged 45 to 59, the prevalence of depression was 11.5% (95% CI 9.9-13.3).
“45 to 59 (n=1,956) 11.5 (9.9-13.3) 4.8 (3.8-6.0) 4.5 (3.6-5.7) 9.3 (7.9-10.9)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Among UK adults aged 45 to 59, the prevalence of depression was 12.0% (95% CI 11.0-13.2).
“45 to 59 (n=4,560) 12.0 (11.0-13.2) 5.1 (4.5-5.9) 5.3 (4.6-6.1) 10.4 (9.5-11.5)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Among UK adults aged 75 or more, the prevalence of depression was 12.2% (95% CI 10.8-13.7).
“75 or more (n=2,473) 12.2 (10.8-13.7) 4.2 (3.4-5.2) 2.4 (1.7-3.2) 6.6 (5.5-7.8)”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Among UK adults aged 60 to 74, the prevalence of depression was 10.3% (95% CI 9.4-11.3).
“60 to 74 (n=5,774) 10.3 (9.4-11.3) 3.8 (3.3-4.4) 2.5 (2.1-3.0) 6.3 (5.3-7.1)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Premisecitation
Since 2007 the APMS collects information only for England and not for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
“However, since 2007 the APMS collects information only for England and not for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites NHS Digital, 2014
Not checked in the free run.
- Premisecitation
The ODIN and SELCoH studies, based in selected samples from Liverpool and south east London, reported higher prevalence estimates for depression varying between 5% and 15%.
“These studies, based in selected samples from Liverpool in the case of the ODIN study (Ayuso-Mateos et al., 2001), and south east London in the case of the SELCoH study (Hatch et al., 2012), have reported higher prevalence estimates for depression, varying between 5% and 15% depending on the specific study.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked - Interpretationcitation
The prevalence estimates of probable depressive disorder in the present study are slightly higher than those reported by the APMS in 2014 using CIS-R.
“The prevalence estimates of probable depressive disorder reported in the present study are slightly higher than those reported by the APMS in 2014 using a different measure (CIS-R) (NHS Digital, 2014), but are similar to those observed in the same year in other high-income countries using the PHQ-8 such as Germany (around 7.4%) and Spain (approximately 6.5%) (Arias-de la Torre et al., 2018;Bretsch”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites NHS Digital, 2014
Not checked in the free run.
- Interpretationcitation
The prevalence estimates of probable depressive disorder in the present study are similar to those observed in the same year in other high-income countries using the PHQ-8 such as Germany (around 7.4%) and Spain (approximately 6.5%).
“The prevalence estimates of probable depressive disorder reported in the present study are slightly higher than those reported by the APMS in 2014 using a different measure (CIS-R) (NHS Digital, 2014), but are similar to those observed in the same year in other high-income countries using the PHQ-8 such as Germany (around 7.4%) and Spain (approximately 6.5%) (Arias-de la Torre et al., 2018;Bretsch”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked - Premisecitation
A higher prevalence of depressive symptoms has consistently been found in women compared to men.
“While a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms has consistently been found in women compared to men, the relationship of the prevalence with age is less clear.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked - Study design and conductnone given
EHIS data has no information on other relevant variables, such as ethnicity or family history of depression.
“Finally, we should point out that EHIS data has no information on other relevant variables, such as ethnicity or family history of depression.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Interpretationown data
Individuals between 45 and 59 years are the age group with the highest risk of depression in the UK.
“Accordingly, our results corroborate that individuals between 45 and 59 years are the age group with the highest risk of depression in the UK.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Premisecitation
EHIS captures a wide range of variables consistently related to the prevalence of depressive symptoms, such as age, sex, demographic factors, BMI, and social support.
“However, EHIS captures a wide range of variables consistently related to the prevalence of depressive symptoms (e.g.age, sex, demographic factors, BMI, and social support) (Eurostat, 2018).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Eurostat, 2018
Not checked in the free run.
- Interpretationreasoning
The results of the current study could be considered as relevant in terms of their capability to be extrapolated to the UK population.
“Therefore, the results of the current study could be considered as relevant in terms of their capability to be extrapolated to the UK population.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationcitation
Variability between countries in age patterns might be explained by methodological and health-related factors, such as differences in the populations analyzed and reporting bias, differences in access to health care resources and treatments in the older population, and differences in welfare regimes and social protection policies.
“Such variability between countries in the age patterns, might be explained by methodological and health-related factors, such as differences in the populations analized and reporting bias between countries, differences in the access to health care resources and treatments in older population, and differences in welfare regimes and social protection policies.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked- cites Arias-de la Torre et al., 2019b
Not checked in the free run.
- cites Bambra, 2011 source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites Bambra and Eikemo, 2008
Not checked in the free run.
- Interpretationreasoning
The results suggest that the role of age as a determinant of depression might vary according to both sex and the severity level considered.
“These results suggest that the role of age as a determinant of depression might vary according to both sex and the severity level considered.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Premisecitation
Previous evidence suggests that information gathering methods might not influence the results when assessing psychiatric disorders, particularly when using the PHQ.
“However, previous evidence suggests that the information gathering methods might not influence the results when assessing psychiatric disorders (Fenig et al., 1993;Rohde et al., 1997), and particularly when using the PHQ (Pinto-Meza et al., 2005).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked - Study design and conductown data
As the interview method was adjusted for in multivariable analysis, the potential source of bias from interview method could be considered at least partially controlled.
“Additionally, despite the differences in the prevalence in the sample used in our study (Supplementary file 2) and their potential influence in the relationships shown, as the interview method was adjusted for in multivariable, this potential source of bias could be considered, at least, partially controlled.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Premisecitation
The PHQ-8 shows suitable psychometric properties for use as a screening tool when compared to clinical interviews, showing very high but not perfect sensitivity and specificity to detect major depressive disorders at the general population level.
“However, the PHQ-8 shows suitable psychometric properties for its use as a screening tool when compared to clinical interviews, showing a very high (but not perfect) sensitivity and specificity to detect major depressive disorders at the general population level (Levis et al., 2019;Moriarty et al., 2015;Wu et al., 2019).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checked- cites Levis et al., 2019
Not checked in the free run.
- cites Moriarty et al., 2015 source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites Wu et al., 2019
Not checked in the free run.
- May combine two claims. 24
- Classified as probably not a substantial claim. 20
May combine two claims.
Findingown dataAmong women, a higher prevalence was found in younger (16 to 29), middle-aged (45 to 59) and older (75 or more) population groups both in all levels of depressive symptoms except for mild, and in probable depressive disorder.
“Among women, a higher prevalence was found in younger (16 to 29), middle-aged (45 to 59) and older (75 or more) population groups both in all levels of depressive symptoms except for mild, and in probable depressive disorder.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataAll prevalence estimates varied largely according to age with a peak of prevalence, particularly of severe depressive symptoms, in the population aged between 45 to 59 years old.
“All these estimates varied largely according to age with a peak of prevalence, particularly of severe depressive symptoms, in the population aged between 45 to 59 years old.”
- Also stated in: § Discussion · boosted
“Furthermore, a clear peak in the prevalence of depression, and particularly of severe depressive symptoms, was identified during middle adulthood (from 45 to 59 years).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Also stated in: § Discussion · boosted
May combine two claims.
Findingown dataIn multivariable analysis, the prevalence of severe depressive symptoms was higher in middle-aged women compared to younger women (aROR: 1.75, 95%CI: 0.99-3.10), but this difference was not statistically significant.
“In multivariable analysis, the prevalence of severe depressive symptoms was higher in middle-aged women compared to younger women (aROR: 1.75, 95%CI: 0.99-3.10),but this difference was not statistically significant.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataThe prevalence of probable depressive disorder was 6.2% for men and 8.6% for women.
“Furthermore, the prevalence of probable depressive disorder in the UK was 7.5% (6.2% and 8.6% for men and women respectively).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataAmong women, statistically significant differences in probable depressive disorder were found for the group aged between 45 and 59 at the bivariable level (OR: 1.48, 95%CI: 1.03-2.12), but no significant differences at the multivariable level were found.
“Among women, while statistically significant differences were found for the group aged between 45 and 59 at bivariable level (OR: 1.48, 95%CI: 1.03-2.12),no significant differences at multivariable level were found.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataThe prevalence of both depressive symptoms and probable depressive disorder was higher among women than among men.
“The prevalence of both depressive symptoms and of a probable depressive disorder was higher among women than among men.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataA high prevalence of mild depressive symptoms was found in those aged 75 years or more (9.3% for men and 12.9% for women) and in younger women (14.4%).
“Another finding was the high prevalence of mild depressive symptoms found in those aged 75 years or more (9.3%for men and 12.9% for women) and in younger women (14.4%).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
PremisecitationVariations in reported prevalence figures could be caused by differences in the study period and in the measure of depression severity.
“Besides the differences in the population considered, variations in the figures reported could be caused by different factors, such as differences in the study period and in the measure of depression severity (Chang et al., 2008).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Chang et al., 2008 source
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Study design and conductnone givenMultivariable regression models were adjusted by all the covariates selected.
“Multivariable regression models were adjusted by all the covariates selected.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
Study design and conductnone givenThe absence of multicollinearity and of interaction between all the covariates and age were tested.
“The absence of multicollinearity and of interaction between all the covariates and age were tested.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
PremisecitationThe younger population might have higher rates of mild depression, while the prevalence of severe depression could be higher among the older population.
“While the younger population might have higher rates of mild depression, the prevalence of severe depression could be higher among the older population (Patel et al., 2018b).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Patel et al., 2018b
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationBoth sex and age have been systematically related to the prevalence of depression.
“Both sex and age have been systematically related to the prevalence of depression (Arias-de la Torre et al., 2018;Kessler et al., 2010;Patel et al., 2018a).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checkedClassified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.
PremisecitationThe most recent APMS suggested a peak of prevalence among the middle-aged population, independent of sex, and a possible increased prevalence of depressive symptoms in young women.
“The most recent APMS suggested a peak of prevalence among the middle-aged population, independent of their sex, and a possible increased prevalence of depressive symptoms in young women (NHS Digital, 2014).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites NHS Digital, 2014
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
PremisecitationEHIS is a nationwide representative survey conducted in all EU member states, Iceland, Norway and Turkey, which began in 2006.
“EHIS is a nationwide representative survey conducted in all EU member states, Iceland, Norway and Turkey, which began in 2006 (Eurostat, 2018).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Eurostat, 2018
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Study design and conductcitationEHIS sampling weights were designed to compensate unequal probabilities of selection and non-response adjustments.
“In addition, EHIS sampling weights were designed to compensate unequal probabilities of selection and non-response adjustments (Eurostat, 2018).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Eurostat, 2018
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationThe PHQ-8 cut-off value of 10 or higher has a sensitivity greater than 75% and a specificity greater than 85% to detect depressive disorders including major depressive disorder and dysthymia.
“According to previous validation studies (Levis et al., 2019;Wu et al., 2019), this cut-off value has a sensitivity >75% and a specificity >85% to detect depressive disorders including major depressive disorder and dysthymia.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites Levis et al., 2019
Not checked in the free run.
- cites Wu et al., 2019
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
PremisecitationThe APMS in 2014 estimated the prevalence of depressive episode in the UK to be between 2% and 6%.
“This prevalence was estimated by the APMS in 2014 to be between 2% and 6%.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites NHS Digital, 2014
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
InterpretationcitationVariation in the prevalence patterns by age were similar in both the EHIS and APMS surveys, with a clear peak between age 45 and 59 for both sexes.
“Despite these differences, variation in the prevalence patterns by age were similar in both surveys, with a clear peak between age 45 and 59 for both sex (NHS Digital, 2014).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites NHS Digital, 2014
Not checked in the free run.
Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.
Study design and conductcitationSampling weights using Taylor series linearization were applied to ensure representativeness and to obtain variance estimates that account for the sampling design.
“To ensure representativeness and to obtain variance estimates that account for the sampling design, sampling weights using Taylor series linearization were applied for the analyses (West and Mccabe, 2012).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites West and Mccabe, 2012
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Study design and conductcitationThe non-response rate was compensated in EHIS using an approach based on sample sizes and weighting.
“The non-response rate was compensated in EHIS using an approach based on sample sizes and weighting.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Eurostat, 2018
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationThe PHQ-8 is a valid and reliable tool used to assess depressive symptoms based on DSM-IV criteria.
“For this study, we included 17,706 non-institutionalized individuals that completed the 8-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-8), a valid and reliable tool used to assess depressive symptoms based on DSM-IV criteria (Wu et al., 2019).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Wu et al., 2019
Not checked in the free run.
Classified as probably not a substantial claim.
PremisecitationThe relationship between age and the prevalence of depressive symptoms might vary depending on depression severity.
“It should also be highlighted that the relationship between age and the prevalence of depressive symptoms might vary depending on depression severity (Salk et al., 2017).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Salk et al., 2017 source
Not checked in the free run.
Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningAs the aim was to assess differences in prevalence according to age, the relationships and patterns found might be considered relevant although under-estimation is possible.
“Despite this limitation, as our aim was to assess differences in prevalence according to age, the relationships and patterns found might be considered relevant although under-estimation is possible.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).
InterpretationreasoningThese variables could interact with age having a mediational or indirect effect in the relationship between age and depression.
“These variables could interact with age having a mediational or indirect effect in the relationship between age and depression.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
InterpretationcitationThe findings might be explained by period factors, such as the possible higher impact on the group aged 45 to 59 of the previous economic recession, and other potential mediators in the relationship of age and depression, such as inflammation increasing with age or family and social roles.
“Moreover, these findings might be explained by a number of reasons, such as period factors (e.g. the possible higher impact on group aged 45 to 59 of the previous economic recession period, particularly in those belonging to the most disadvantaged groups) and other potential mediators in the relationship of age and depression”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checkedProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Study design and conductnone givenThe lack of inclusion of socioeconomic status and other sociodemographic variables, such as educational level and marital status, in multivariable models is a limitation.
“It should be also noted the lack of inclusion of socioeconomic status and other sociodemographic variables (e.g.educational level and marital status) in multivariable models.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Study design and conductnone givenPotential bias from how the information on depressive symptoms was gathered, with approximately 25% of the sample interviewed face-to-face and 75% by telephone, is a limitation.
“Another limitation is related to potential bias from how the information on depressive symptoms was gathered (approximately 25% of the sample was interviewed face-to-face and 75% by telephone).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
InterpretationcitationThe mild depressive symptoms category is under the cut-off value of 10 or higher consistently proposed to determine the presence of depression using the PHQ-8 and therefore could be indicative of subclinical depression or depressive mood.
“The mild depressive symptoms category is under the cut-off value (10+) consistently proposed to determine the presence of depression using the PHQ-8 and, therefore, could be indicative of subclinical depression or depressive mood (Levis et al., 2019;Moriarty et al., 2015;Salk et al., 2017).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checkedMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationIn younger women, while in many cases mild depressive symptoms could have a remission in the late 20s, some could develop more severe symptoms and a depressive disorder over adulthood.
“In younger women, while in many cases mild depressive symptoms could have a remission in the late 20s (Patton et al., 2014), some of them could develop more severe symptoms and a depressive disorder over adulthood.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Patton et al., 2014 source
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
Interpretationown dataWhile among men the relationship of age with the prevalence of depressive symptoms becomes more relevant as severity increases, among women the strength of these relationships is lower.
“It should be highlighted that while among men the relationship of age with the prevalence of depressive symptoms becomes more relevant as severity increases, among women the strength of these relationships is lower.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationIn older ages, the presence of mild depressive symptoms is strongly associated with an increased risk of mortality, decline of overall health status and low quality of life.
“In older ages, the presence of mild depressive symptoms are strongly associated with an increased risk of mortality, decline of overall health status and low quality of life (Cai et al., 2020;Holwerda et al., 2016;Sivertsen et al., 2015).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checkedProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
PremisecitationEvidence from other countries suggests that the prevalence of depression tends to increase as age increases.
“Evidence from other countries (Arias-de la Torre et al., 2018;Luppa et al., 2012;Maske et al., 2016), suggests that the prevalence of depression tends to increase as the age increases.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checkedClassified as probably not a substantial claim.
Study design and conductnone givenAll percentages and standard errors were calculated taking into account the weights derived from the complex sample design using the Taylor series linearization method.
“All percentages and standard errors were calculated taking into account the weights derived from the complex sample design using the Taylor series linearization method.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Study design and conductcitationPeople with mental disorders could be less likely to participate in cross-sectional population surveys and therefore the results may be under-estimates of true population prevalence.
“It should be also mentioned that people with mental disorders could be less likely to participate in cross-sectional population surveys and therefore our results may be under-estimates of true population prevalence (Arias-de la Torre et al., 2020; Knudsen et al., 2010).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites Arias-de la Torre et al., 2020
Not checked in the free run.
- cites Knudsen et al., 2010 source
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
InterpretationcitationDue to high differences between countries in these factors, the prevalence in the middle-age group might be higher in the UK than in southern or central European countries.
“Due to the high differences between countries in these factors, the prevalence in the middle-age group might be higher in the UK than in southern or central European countries (Arias-de la Torre et al., 2019b;Bambra, 2011;Bambra and Eikemo, 2008;Reibling, 2010).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked- cites Arias-de la Torre et al., 2019b
Not checked in the free run.
- cites Bambra, 2011 source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites Bambra and Eikemo, 2008
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Study design and conductnone givenThe use of a screening tool to determine the presence of probable depressive disorder and the severity of depressive symptoms is a limitation.
“First, the use of a screening tool to determine the presence of probable depressive disorder and the severity of depressive symptoms.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
Claims other papers make about this one
Each is checked against this paper’s own text: does it say what the citing paper says it does?
The RADAR-MDD cohort has a higher proportion of White and female individuals than typically seen in the general population or depressed population.
“The RADAR-MDD cohort has a higher proportion of White and female individuals than would typically be seen in the general population or depressed population [45]”
Self-check
Percentages, sums and reported differences re-computed from the paper’s own numbers.
Each contradiction between two passages listed here was confirmed by an independent check.
Table 1 gives a different total sample size
MinorTable 1 labels the total as 17,652, whereas the Results and other tables give 17,152. The Table 1 counts for men and women also total 17,152.
“Total (n=17,652) Men (n=7,515; 46.3% 95%CI: 45.3-47.3)Women (n=9,637; 53.8% 95%CI: 52.8-54.7)”
“Analyses were carried out in a sample of 17,152 individuals”
Women's crude probable-disorder association does not meet the stated significance level
MinorThe reported odds ratio and 95% confidence interval imply a two-sided p-value of approximately 0.035, above the stated 0.01 significance level. The text nevertheless calls the bivariable difference statistically significant.
“Among women, while statistically significant differences were found for the group aged between 45 and 59 at bivariable level (OR: 1.48, 95%CI: 1.03-2.12),no significant differences at multivariable level were found.”
“The level of significance was set at 0.01.”
Discussion understates mild symptoms in women aged 75 or more
MinorThe discussion gives 12.9% for women aged 75 or more, but the age-specific results give 13.5%. The 12.9% figure is reported for women overall.
“Another finding was the high prevalence of mild depressive symptoms found in those aged 75 years or more (9.3%for men and 12.9% for women) and in younger women (14.4%).”
“75 or more 13.5 (11.6-15.8) 5.1 (3.9-6.7) 3.0 (2.1-4.3) 8.6 (7.9-9.3”
Age-75-plus sex counts exceed the reported total
MinorTable 1 reports 1,225 men and 1,348 women aged 75 or more, which sum to 2,573, not the reported 2,473.
Reported 2473 · recomputed 2573
“75 or more 2,473 10.0-9.5- 10.5) 1,225 9.0 (8.4- 9.6) 1,348 10.9 (10.2- 11.5)”
Women's crude severe-symptom association does not meet the stated significance level
MinorThe reported odds ratio and 95% confidence interval imply a two-sided p-value of approximately 0.035. That does not meet the paper's stated 0.01 significance level, despite being described as significant.
“Among women, significantly higher prevalence of severe symptoms (ROR: 1.78, 95%CI: 1.04-3.06)was found at the bivariable level”
“The level of significance was set at 0.01.”
Discussion understates mild symptoms in men aged 75 or more
MinorThe discussion gives 9.3% for men aged 75 or more, but the age-specific results give 10.2%. The 9.3% figure is reported for men overall.
“Another finding was the high prevalence of mild depressive symptoms found in those aged 75 years or more (9.3%for men and 12.9% for women) and in younger women (14.4%).”
“75 or more (n=1,125) 10.2 (8.3-12.05) 2.9 (2.0-4.2) 1.4 (0.8-2.7) 4.3 (3.1-5.9)”
The citation lists haven’t been fetched yet
References 50 · Cited by 92
Research works printed but not linked: 2
- Patel, 2018, Income inequality and depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis of the association and a scoping review of mechanisms, World Psychiatry, 17, 76, 10.1002/wps.20492 · DOI · Paper page
- 2017, Depression and other common mental disorders: global health estimates, World Heal. Organ., 1
- Authors
- Arias de la Torre, J., Vilagut, G., Ronaldson, A., Dregan, A., Ricci-Cabello, I., Hatch, S. L., Serrano-Blanco, A., Valderas, J. M., Hotopf, M., & Alonso, J.
- Affiliations
- Municipal Institute for Medical Research (ES)
- King's College London (GB)
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (ES)
- ORCID
- Venue
- Journal of Affective Disorders
- Publisher
- Elsevier BV
- Published
- 2021-01
- Volume
- 279
- Pages
- 164-172
- ISSN
- 0165-0327 (ISSN-L)
- OpenAlex
- W3090428067
- Semantic Scholar
- 9a4b24919f0da696c6fc166565d385e0d9f4518d
- Cited by
- 92
- References
- 50
- Citations by year
- 2026: 20 · 2025: 23 · 2024: 16 · 2023: 10 · 2022: 14 · 2021: 9
- FWCI
- 9.02
- Type
- journal article
- Language
- en
- Open access
- hybrid
- doi.org
- Licence
- Locations
- Journal of Affective Disorders (publishedVersion, cc-by-nc-sa)
- PubMed (publishedVersion)
- Open Research Exeter (University of Exeter) (acceptedVersion, cc-by-nc-nd)
- Repositori digital de la UPF (Universitat Pompeu Fabra) (acceptedVersion)
- Hispana (submittedVersion, cc-by-nc-sa)
- Docusalut (Conselleria de Salut i Consum del Govern de les Illes Balears) (submittedVersion)
- Figshare (submittedVersion, cc-by-nc-nd)
- Funders
- Medical Research Council
- Topics
- Social Sciences › Psychology › Social Psychology › Mental Health Treatment and Access
- Social Sciences › Psychology › Experimental and Cognitive Psychology › Anxiety, Depression, Psychometrics, Treatment, Cognitive Processes
- Health Sciences › Medicine › Pharmacology › Treatment of Major Depression
- Keywords
- depression, depressive symptoms, prevalence, age patterns, midlife, sex differences, PHQ-8, European Health Interview Survey, United Kingdom
- MeSH terms
- Patient Health Questionnaire, Adolescent, Adult, Cross-Sectional Studies, Depression, Female, United Kingdom, Humans, Male, Middle Aged, Prevalence, Young Adult
About these checks
Registry, retraction, Cites and statistics results are computed, not judged, with one exception: a printed reference that no index lists is read once by a model before it counts as a citation error. Claims are extracted by a model and kept only when their quote appears verbatim in the text; each cited source is then checked, with a model’s help, for whether it says what the claim relies on. Those verdicts can be wrong — read the claim’s quote and the cited source before relying on one.
Claims read by deepseek-v4.1-flash under definition version 3 (extract-v3) on 2026-10-10.
Classified by jev-1.13-20260917 (gold-guideline-v0.2) on 2026-10-10.
Statistics and arithmetic are recomputed, not judged.
Confidence bands are shown only for fields calibrated on our annotated test set. None is calibrated yet, so no band is shown.
What counts as a claim ›How we measure confidence ›How we check this ›
Are you an author, or do you see a problem with this page? Request a review