Gender differences in the effects of urban neighborhood on depressive symptoms in Jamaica.

Objective: To explore the mental health effects of the urban neighborhood on men and women in Jamaica and the implications for urban planning and social development.

Methods: A cross-sectional household sample of 2 848 individuals 15-74 years of age obtained from the Jamaica Health and Lifestyle Survey 2007-2008 was analyzed. Secondary analysis was undertaken by developing composite scores to describe observer recorded neighborhood features, including infrastructure, amenities/services, physical conditions, community socioeconomic status, and green spaces around the home.