Association Between Depression, Socioeconomic Factors and Dietary Intake in Married Women, Bandar Abbas, Iran

Background: Socioeconomic factors and dietary intake have suggested being effective in the appearance of depression. A limited number of studies have addressed such factors in Iranian communities. In this study, we investigated the relationship between depression, dietary intake, and socioeconomic factors among married women within a developing community in the south of Iran. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 480 married women in 2014. A multi-stage cluster sampling method was used for sampling. The Beck depression inventory was used to assess the level of depression. 24-hour dietary intake information was collected using a self-administered diet history questionnaire. Demographic information and socioeconomic status were also collected using a predesigned questionnaire. The data were analyzed using the Pearson correlation coefficient, t test, chi-square test, analysis of variance, and linear and logistic regression models. Results: The average age of subjects in this study was 38.6 (SD = 6.7) years. The prevalence of depression in married women was found to be 42.7%. A significant direct correlation was observed between the depression score and age, body mass index, the number of children, and family size. The daily intake of most macronutrients was inversely related to the depression level. Moreover, logistic regression analysis revealed that married women with lower education levels (odds ratio (OR) = 3.39, 95%CI: 1.83 - 5.43), unemployed spouses (OR = 5.72, 95%CI: 2.21 - 9.86), and low socioeconomic statuses (OR = 3.74, 95%CI: 2.33 - 5.07) were more likely to be depressed. Conclusions: The findings of this study suggest that compared to other subpopulations in Iran and foreign communities, married women in Bandar Abbas show higher rates of depressive symptoms. Education, employment, and economic status are among the most important predictors of depression in married women. Therefore, it is essential to consider these factors in future studies.