Alzheimer's Society comment on new study claiming that depression could increase risk of dementia

The study of 949 members of the Framingham Heart study cohort over 17 years looked at the relationship between depression and risk of dementia.

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:

'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.'  

Prof Clive Ballard
Director of Research
Alzheimer's Society

- Ends -

Study Reference: 'Depression symptoms and risk of dementia' by JS Saczynski et al in Neurology (Tuesday, 6 July 2010)

Notes to editors:

• For spokespeople or case studies please contact the press office on 0207 423 3595.
• The Framingham Heart Study is a longitudinal population-based cohort study of 5,209 subjects established in 1948. Since the study's inception, surviving cohort members have undergone regular biennial examinations.
• 4 - 10 July is Dementia Awareness Week. This year, the biggest week in Alzheimer's Society's calendar has the theme Remember the Person.
• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia.
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In just 15 years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051. 
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them.
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
• Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
  
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk