Depression could increase risk of dementia claims study
Published 6 July 2010
Having depression could nearly double your risk of developing dementia, research published in Neurology today (Tuesday, 6 July 2010) suggests.
While 16.6 per cent of participants who were not depressed at the start of the study went on to develop dementia, 21.6 per cent of those who were depressed did. This demonstrates an almost 50 per cent increased risk in dementia.
Alzheimer's Society comment:
Prof Clive Ballard'This is a large and robust study that adds considerable weight to the accumulating evidence of a link between depression and dementia. However, more research is now needed to establish why the link exists.
'It is well known depression is common in early stages of dementia. What this study demonstrates is that depression at a younger age is probably a significant risk factor for dementia. This week, Dementia Awareness Week, Alzheimer's Society is encouraging people to contact their GP if they are worried about their health. A timely diagnosis of dementia can help people plan for the future and improve their quality of life.'
Director of Research
Alzheimer's Society
