Digitalisation provisions for controlling depression in developing countries: short review

Abstract Depression is a global health issue which is associated with disability, absenteeism, decreased productivity and high suicide rates. It is the fourth most common cause of disability globally and by the year 2020 it will be the second leading cause of disease burden. In Pakistan, the prevale...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association 2020-10, p.1-9
Main Authors: Naureen Akbar Ali, Hasan Nawaz Tahir, Rawshan Jabeen
Format: Article
Language:English
Online Access:Get full text
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Summary:Abstract Depression is a global health issue which is associated with disability, absenteeism, decreased productivity and high suicide rates. It is the fourth most common cause of disability globally and by the year 2020 it will be the second leading cause of disease burden. In Pakistan, the prevalence of depression is 45.9%. A unique and promising method for addressing the issue is mobile health (m-health). It refers to the utilisation of mobile technology to support various aspects of healthcare. Electronic record, SMS, internet, wearable devices and mobile applications are some of the digitalisation approaches used to bridge the treatment gap in depression through assuring privacy of patients, improving accessibility, reducing taboos related to depression, save cost for patients and reduce hospital burden and consultation time; these will be accessible in remote areas as well. Therefore, Continuous...
ISSN:0030-9982
DOI:10.47391/JPMA.614