Depression in Young Adults Linked to Dementia Later in Life
Study finds a higher risk of dementia in those with a history of depression
Young adults and those in middle age who are dealing with depression appear to have a higher risk of another serious issue later in life: dementia. A new study in JAMA Neurology found that those diagnosed with depression between the ages of 18 and 59 were 2.4 times more likely to develop dementia in their 60s and beyond, reports USA Today. CNN reports that epidemiologist Dr. Holly Elser and her co-authors at the University of Pennsylvania analyzed data on more than 1.4 million Danish subjects spanning more than 40 years—1977 to 2018. The study tracked individuals with—or without—a diagnosis of depression and the development of dementia symptoms, while accounting for variables such as education, income, and physical ailments.
Understanding the Association
- Depression may increase dementia risk through alterations in levels of key neurotransmitters
- Depression may lead to changes in health behaviors that increase risk for dementia
- The study found a stronger link between depression and dementia in men compared to women
Potential for Treatment and Prevention
Dr. Holly Elser stated that additional research is needed to explore how medication and therapy can help. Past research has indicated that seniors who went to therapy saw a reduction in anxiety and depression, potentially reducing the possibility of developing dementia in the future. However, the researchers could not determine whether seeking treatment for depression at a younger age could reduce the risk of dementia later in life. Elser emphasized the importance of managing depression clinically when it arises, as it may have long-term effects throughout a person’s life.
