Influence of Sociodemographic, Socioeconomic, and Health Factors on Depression in the Peruvian Population: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: Depression is a prevalent, debilitating, and potentially life-threatening disorder that affects millions of people worldwide and is influenced by multiple factors. Objective: To examine the influence of sociodemographic, socioeconomic, and health-related factors on depression in the Peruvian adult population using data from a nationally representative survey conducted between 2020 and 2022. Methods: A descriptive analysis of the variables was conducted, followed by a bivariate analysis using the Chi-square test with the Rao-Scott correction. Subsequently, a multivariate analysis was performed using a Poisson multiple regression model with robust variance to estimate adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals. Results: The study included 72 334 participants aged 18 to 97 and identified an increased likelihood of depression among older adults (≥60 years; aPR = 1.18 [1.08, 1.29]); single individuals (aPR = 1.33 [1.22, 1.45]); separated individuals (aPR = 1.32 [1.18, 1.47]); divorced or widowed individuals (aPR = 1.44 [1.34, 1.56]); residents of the Sierra region (aPR = 1.41 [1.30, 1.53]); economically inactive individuals (aPR = 1.08 [1.01, 1.16]); individuals with disabilities (aPR = 1.50 [1.28, 1.77]); those diagnosed with hypertension (aPR = 1.45 [1.33, 1.58]) or diabetes (aPR = 1.42 [1.27, 1.59]); and those who smoke monthly (aPR = 1.32 [1.19, 1.48]). Conversely, being male (aPR = 0.50 [0.46, 0.54]), having a higher level of education (secondary or above; aPR = 0.69 [0.62, 0.76]), residing on the coast (aPR = 0.83 [0.76, 0.91]) or in the jungle region (aPR = 0.87 [0.79, 0.96]), living in a rural area (aPR = 0.85 [0.78, 0.93]), and having a higher wealth index (aPR = 0.81 [0.71, 0.94]) were associated with a lower likelihood of depression. Conclusions: In conclusion, depression is significantly associated with various sociodemographic, socioeconomic, and health factors.