Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression Among Chinese Diabetes Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for Chinese diabetic patients suffering from depression. Method: Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we researched seven electronic databases and two professional websites. Publication bias was assessed using funnel plot. Meta-analysis was conducted using meta-regression with robust variance estimation. Results: Final analysis included a total of 23 controlled trials containing 201 effect size estimates (including 5025 participants). Subgroup analyses indicated significant treatment effects for (1) depression outcomes, anxiety outcomes, psychological stress/distress outcomes, physiological outcomes, and general wellness outcomes, (2) studies with/without manuals, (3) studies using individual-based/group-based CBT, (4) studies in person/assisted with technology, and (5) studies providers with/without training. The treatment outcomes and intervention composition (CBT only versus CBT plus other approaches) were significant moderators. Conclusions: Findings of the study suggested CBT is a promising treatment option for depression among Chinese diabetes patients.