In Santa Catarina, 17 thousand older people suffer from depression. The data was presented by the ACM (Associação Santa Catarina de Medicina) this Wednesday afternoon (13) at its headquarters in Florianópolis.
In Santa Catarina, the number of elderly people suffering from depression is increasing. Photo: Freeík/Divulgação/NDUsing data from the Ministry of Health and surveys of those surveyed, the Association conducted a study among the residents of Santa Catarina, asking them several questions. A total of 2,506 people were surveyed.
The number of people over 60 with depression has the highest rate of the group at 19%, according to state data. In total, 930 thousand people in the state suffer from the disease.
Older people suffer from depression
According to the Ministry of Health, the increase in depression in older people is a complex phenomenon that results from the interaction of several factors. Among these factors is social isolation, which is common among older people due to loss of friends, family, retirement, or decreased mobility. Chronic illness also plays an important role, as treatment for conditions such as diabetes and heart problems can negatively impact emotional well-being.
Significant losses, such as the death of loved ones or decline in physical abilities, are important emotional triggers for depression in older adults. Biological factors, such as changes in neurotransmitters and hormones associated with aging, also contribute to vulnerability to depression.
Changes in family life, such as the relocation of adult children or major life events, can affect the emotional stability of older adults. Thus, the increase in depression in older adults is a multifaceted phenomenon that requires a comprehensive approach to understand and effectively address these issues.
Young people smoke more
According to the presentation, young people in Santa Catarina are increasingly smoking. According to the index, 20% of Santa Catarina’s population smokes. In other words, 1.8 million people smoke in the state. Of these, more than 24% are young people between 18 and 24 years old.
“We need to pay attention to young people who are increasingly smoking, especially e-cigarettes. Where are we going wrong when reporting damage?” asks ACM President Ademar José de Oliveira Paes Júnior.
As for the phenomenon of young smokers, the Ministry of Health explains that the onset of smoking in adolescence is associated with several reasons, such as imitation of the behavior of a group, a smoking close friend, or smoking parents. The frequent situation of easy access contributes to this situation being seen as a factor that initiates and stimulates consumption.
Hypertension
Another topic that was covered in the ACM presentation was the number of people with high blood pressure in Santa Catarina. More than 2 million people in Santa Catarina suffer from high blood pressure. 28% of Santa Catarina residents think so.
According to the Ministry of Health, hypertension or high blood pressure is a disease that affects the blood vessels, heart, brain, eyes and can cause kidney failure.
System system pressure
Santa Catarina Health Assistant Secretary Diogo Demarchi Silva was present at the event and said today the state intends to use the data presented by the ACM to inform greater public policy.
“We want the people of Santa Catarina to be known for their lifestyle, and we believe that by looking at the data, taking a step back, we can reflect on our habits,” he states.
The expression “pressure on the public health system” refers to the overload, problems and difficulties faced by the public health system in a given country or region. This pressure may result from a number of factors, including increased demand for health services, lack of financial resources, inadequate infrastructure, shortages of health care workers, and other systemic issues.
ACM presents health data for Santa Catarina residents – Photo: Reproduction/ACM/NDRelevant data about Santa Catarina
Other data that has attracted attention in Santa Catarina is that, for example, 22% of Santa Catarina residents drink soda and artificial juices every 7 days of the week. Among them, 37% are between the ages of 18 and 24 years.
The practice of physical activity in Santa Catarina continues at a strong pace. According to research, 74% of Santa Catarina residents exercise at least 3 times a week. Among them, 77% are between the ages of 18 and 24 years.
On the other hand, eating healthy foods is a concern among researchers. For reference, healthy food consumption is up about 6% compared to 2022.
Medical diagnosis of high blood pressure
- 28% Santa Catarina
- 58% over 60 (highest percentage)
- 89% take medications
Diagnosis of diabetes
- 10% Santa Catarina
- 26% over 60 (highest percentage)
- 90% take medications
Diagnosis of high cholesterol levels (rate of change)
- 18% Santa Catarina
- 38% over 60 (highest percentage)
- 71% take medications
Diagnosis of depression
- 15% Santa Catarina
- 19% over 60 (highest percentage)
- 15% aged 35 to 44 (second highest percentage)
- 66% take medications regularly
Regular visits to the doctor
- 60% visit a doctor at least once a year
- 40% go to the doctor only in case of an emergency.
Health system
- 28% of medical clothing users
- 72% of SUS users
Oral hygiene
- 71% brush their teeth at least 3 times a day.
- 95% brush their teeth before bed
- 47% floss at least once a day.
- 39% go to the dentist only when they feel pain
Eye health
- 58% have difficulty reading without glasses
- 86% over 60 years of age (highest percentage)
- 42% go to a specialist only when they have a problem
Exposure to screens (cell phone, computer, and television)
- 97% use it regularly
- 53% four or more hours a day
Source: Ndmais