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Can depression speed up aging? Scientists warn of a 30% higher health risk

A recent study published in the journal *Nature Mental Health* has highlighted a concerning link between depression and accelerated aging. Researchers from Amsterdam University Medical Center found that individuals with depression exhibit signs of aging faster than their chronological age, potentially increasing their risk of age-related diseases by up to 30%. The study utilized blood samples to measure DNA methylation, a marker of biological aging, and discovered that those with depression had an average biological age approximately 1.7 years older than their actual age. This accelerated aging could explain why people with depression often face higher incidences of conditions like cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cognitive decline. The findings underscore the importance of addressing mental health not only for psychological well-being but also for physical health outcomes, suggesting that managing depression could play a crucial role in mitigating premature aging and associated health risks.

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[ https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/can-depression-speed-up-aging-scientists-warn-of-a-30-higher-health-risk/articleshow/118395110.cms ]