India depression screening: Integrating universal depression screening into India’s primary healthcare system could deliver major economic and public health gains, according to a new study published in The Lancet Regional Health – Southeast Asia.
Researchers from institutions including PGIMER Chandigarh and NIMHANS Bengaluru estimated that a nationwide screening programme could generate net savings of Rs 291 billion to Rs 482 billion. The study said this amounts to roughly 0.19% to 0.32% of India’s GDP, suggesting that early detection and timely treatment could reduce both healthcare costs and productivity losses.
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The analysis indicated that extending screening to adults aged 20 years and above may be more cost-effective than limiting it to older age groups. It also found that the programme is likely to save money if at least 60% of patients who require treatment access services through public healthcare facilities.
Currently, depression is often identified through “opportunistic diagnosis”, when symptoms are detected incidentally during visits for other health issues, or when patients present with clear clinical signs. The researchers argued that a structured, population-based approach could improve early identification and reduce the long-term burden of disease.
The study also projected that universal screening could reduce depression-related suicides by around 15% annually, underlining the importance of earlier intervention.
The authors recommended a two-step screening strategy within government primary health settings, using PHQ-2 as an initial check followed by PHQ-9 for further assessment. These questionnaires are widely used internationally to screen, diagnose and monitor depression severity in adults.
The findings, based on data from the National Mental Health Survey, the National Sample Survey and previously published research, add weight to calls for a stronger primary care-led mental health system in India, the researchers said.
