Digitalisation provisions for controlling depression in developing countries: short review

Authors

  • Naureen Akbar Ali eHealth Resource Centre, Aga Khan Development Network, Karachi, Pakistan
  • Hasan Nawaz Tahir Department of Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
  • Rawshan Jabeen Department of Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47391/JPMA.614

Abstract

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...

Additional Files

Published

2020-10-06

How to Cite

Naureen Akbar Ali, Hasan Nawaz Tahir, & Rawshan Jabeen. (2020). Digitalisation provisions for controlling depression in developing countries: short review. Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association, 1–9. https://doi.org/10.47391/JPMA.614

Issue

Section

Short Review