Comparing Depression Scales in Early Rheumatoid Arthritis
Author Information
Author(s): Tanya Covic, Julie F. Pallant, Alan Tennant, Sally Cox, Paul Emery, Philip G. Conaghan
Primary Institution: University of Western Sydney
Hypothesis
Do the CES-D and HADS-D scales measure the same construct of depression in early rheumatoid arthritis patients?
Conclusion
The CES-D scale is unsuitable for early RA without modification, while the HADS-D is valid and provides comparable prevalence rates.
Supporting Evidence
- The CES-D scale was found to have poor fit and required reduction to 13 items.
- The HADS-D scale met model expectations and showed no misfit.
- Combined analysis of CES-D13 and HADS-D confirmed they measure the same underlying construct.
- Prevalence rates for depression were significantly higher using the CES-D compared to HADS-D.
Takeaway
This study looked at two tests for depression in people with early rheumatoid arthritis and found that one test needs to be changed to work better.
Methodology
Data from CES-D and HADS-D scales were analyzed using the Rasch measurement model.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to differential item functioning in the CES-D scale.
Limitations
The sample size is small and may affect the precision of estimates; no clinical assessment of depression was conducted.
Participant Demographics
62% female; mean age = 56.3 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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