Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Depression is a common mental disorder that leads to undesirable consequences. The study of the role of depression in disability pension can provide valuable insights. This study was conducted with the goal of systematic review and meta-analysis of the relationship between depression and disability pension. METHODS: PubMed, Scopus, PsycInfo, and Google Scholar databases were systematically searched until March 2018. Fifteen prospective cohort studies were selected and included in the meta-analysis. The random-effects method was used to combine the studies. Subgroup analysis was performed, and publication bias was also examined. RESULTS: Depression was a risk factor for disability pension (pooled risk ratio =1.68 and 95 confidence interval = 1.50-1.88). In men, pooled risk ratio was 1.82 for the effect of depression on the risk of disability pension (95 confidence interval = 1.45-2.28). In women, pooled risk ratio was 1.62 (95 confidence interval = 1.31-2.02). The results showed that there is publication bias. CONCLUSIONS: Depression is a factor for retirement due to disability. Therefore, the prevention and treatment of depression can reduce socioeconomic and psychological consequences imposed on society.