Prevalence and Determinants of Depression Among Adolescent Girls and Young Women at Risk of HIV in Urban Slums of Kampala

Adolescents and young women (AGYW) represent 15.1% of the global population and face a heightened risk of depression, especially in low and middle-income countries. We investigated the prevalence and determinants of Depression among AGYW at risk of HIV in urban slums of Kampala. A quantitative cross-sectional design was used to assess depression in 394 AGYW (14-24 years) using the Patient Health Questionnaire from January to May 2023. Prevalence was analyzed using proportions and 95% confidence intervals. Statistical tests, including chi-square, Fisher’s exact, ANOVA, and Mann-Whitney U, explored associations. Logistic regression models assessed risk, and the Hosmer-Lemeshow test evaluated the model fit. The prevalence of depression was 7.9% (95% CI = 5.6%-11.0%). Marital status ( P = .024), having a high number of multiple sexual partners in the last 3 months ( P = .029), and having a high number of multiple paying sexual partners in the last 3 months ( P = .005) were significantly associated with depression. Thus, advocacy is crucial for improving depression screening and treatment for AGYW.