Validation of PHQ-2 and PHQ-9 to screen for major depression in the primary care population.

Purpose: Although screening for unipolar depression is controversial, it is potentially an efficient way to find undetected cases and improve diagnostic acumen. Using a reference standard, we aimed to validate the 2- and 9-question Patient Health Questionnaires (PHQ-2 and PHQ-9) in primary care settings. The PHQ-2 comprises the first 2 questions of the PHQ-9.

The prevalence of depression among Maori patients in Auckland general practice.

Introduction: There has been concern over high rates of mental illness in Maori. Previous studies in general practice have had small sample sizes.

Aim: To determine the prevalence of major depression among Maori patients in Auckland general practice using the CIDI and the PHQ as measurement tools.