M33: DEPRESSION PROBLEMS AMONG TURKISH TWINS

Abstract

Background In this study, we investigate factors affecting depressive behavior among adult Turkish twins living in the Kirikkale and Ankara regions of Turkey. Twins administered a health and lifestyle interview which included questions about smoking, alcohol and drug use, depression, demographics and factors possibly affecting behavior problems. Main focus was on binary variable pointing to depressive problems. Methods We assessed 309 twin pairs (339 males and 279 females) aged between 15 and 45 years living in the Kirikkale and Ankara regions of Turkey. We analyzed the data using descriptive statistics, t-tests, chi-square tests, and bivariate and multivariate clustered logistic regression. In addition, we fit Structural Equation Models (SEM) to determine contributions of latent genetic and environmental factors to depression in this sample. Results 256 participants (43.9%) were identified as having depressive problems, of which 45.3% were males and 54.7% were females. Mean for depression was significantly higher in males than in females (p=0.0001). Our study showed that gender, presence of a twin with depression in the family, age, marital status, and daily sports activities all played a significant role in depressive behavior among twins. The twin analysis suggested that genetic factors play significant role on the liability to depressive problems. Discussion Significant differences in the presence of depression in women versus men are observed for the Turkish population. We find that having a twin with depression plays a significant role in depression problems among Turkish twins. This study will enable us to better understand genetic and environmental influences on behavioral outcomes across diverse cultures.