Question

Which patient is at the greatest risk for depression?

1. Single, 45-year-old woman with an alcohol use disorder and history of hypothyroidism
2. A married, 50-year-old man with no significant medical issues
3. A married, 50-year-old woman with no significant medical issues
4. A single, 45-year-old man with well-controlled diabetes

Answer 1

The single, 45-year-old woman with an alcohol use disorder and hypothyroidism history is at the highest risk for depression, which may contribute to elevated heart disease risk.

Step-by-step explanation:

The patient at the greatest risk for depression is a single, 45-year-old woman with an alcohol use disorder and history of hypothyroidism. Research has shown that depression is common in patients with alcohol use disorders and chronic medical conditions such as hypothyroidism.

Additionally, depression significantly elevates the risk for heart disease, with studies indicating that depressed individuals have a markedly higher risk of cardiac events. A single woman with these risk factors would be considered at higher susceptibility for depression, which in turn could lead to subsequent cardiovascular problems.