Prevalence and Risk Factors of Depression in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Ke YangYuyang FangJunbo HeJing LI^*

• Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China

Objective: This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the prevalence of depression among individuals with diabetes and identified associated risk factors. Methods: Five databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, ProQuest, Embase) were searched for observational studies reporting depression prevalence and multivariable-adjusted risk factors in diabetic populations. Two reviewers independently screened and extracted data. Analyses were conducted using R software. Results: Thirty-nine studies involving 17,486 diabetic patients were included. The pooled prevalence of depression was 35% (95% CI: 30%–41%). Risk factors included age ≤60 years, female sex, being single, unemployment, physical inactivity, anxiety, limited social support, poor medication adherence, complications (neuropathy, nephropathy, retinopathy, foot ulcers), physical disability, insulin therapy, combined insulin–oral treatment, and fasting glucose ≥126 mg/dL. Conclusion: Depression affects over one-third of diabetic patients and is associated with sociodemographic, psychological, and clinical factors. Our study provides updated global evidence and identifies specific high-risk profiles (e.g., females, those with complications, or on combination therapy), supporting the need for targeted screening beyond general recommendations. These findings support the integration of standardized depression screening tools such as the PHQ-9 into routine diabetes care, particularly in resource-limited settings. For patients with identified risk factors, regular follow-up screening is recommended to enable early detection and timely intervention. Routine screening and timely intervention are essential, especially for high-risk groups. Longitudinal studies are needed to clarify causal links and inform targeted prevention.