Daijiworld Media Network – Adelaide

Adelaide, May 31: A major international study led by researchers from the University of Adelaide has confirmed a strong link between depression in midlife or later years and an increased risk of developing dementia.

According to a press release issued by the university on Friday, researchers conducted a comprehensive review of 26 studies and found consistent evidence that late-life depression significantly heightens the risk of all-cause dementia.

“Depression is associated with a higher risk of dementia whether it begins in midlife or later in life. This highlights the importance of treating depression at all stages to safeguard both mental and cognitive health,” said Jacob Brain, lead author of the study and a joint PhD scholar at the University of Adelaide and the University of Nottingham, UK.

Dementia currently affects over 57 million people worldwide. While previous studies hinted at a possible link with depression, the latest research sheds light on the impact of both timing and severity of depressive episodes.

Published in eClinicalMedicine, part of The Lancet Discovery Science, the study suggests that the connection may stem from factors such as chronic inflammation, vascular issues, neurobiological deterioration, and even shared genetic or lifestyle influences.

“Our findings raise the possibility that depression in later life may not just be a risk factor but also an early symptom of dementia onset,” Brain explained. He emphasized that this insight opens new avenues for early detection and intervention in dementia.

The researchers called for stronger global mental health strategies to address depression as part of dementia prevention efforts.