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For Immediate Release
May 12, 2005

For Further Information:
Barbara Loecher
(212) 308-1414 x308

Orlando, FL-According to a study presented today at the American Geriatrics Society Annual Meeting, atherosclerosis -the accumulation of fatty plaque in the blood vessels-not only sets the stage for heart attacks and strokes, it can also boost risks of depression among older adults. The National Institute of Mental Health considers depression in people age 65 and older a major public health problem. Of the nearly 35 million Americans 65 and older, an estimated 7 million suffer from some form of depression at one time or another.

Investigating the effects of atherosclerosis on risk of depression, researchers at the University of Louisville used data from the National Institute on Aging's Health, Aging and Body Composition Study (Health ABC). The researchers tracked more than 2,100 adults, aged 70 to 79, who were enrolled in Health ABC, and were high-functioning, and lived in the community, rather than in nursing homes.

None of the adults were depressed at the start of the study. But those who had indicators of atherosclerosis (such as angina, or low "good cholesterol" levels) were 50 to 90% more likely to develop depression over the course of two years than were those without such indicators. Other health problems, including cancer, osteoarthritis, and osteoporosis, were not associated with an increased risk of depression in this study.

Changes to small blood vessels in the brain caused by plaque build-up may alter mood regulation, the researchers speculate.

"Physicians should be aware that older patients with atherosclerosis and other vascular risk factors may be at increased risk of depression and should watch for warning signs," says the study's lead researcher, Dr. Benjamin Mast, Assistant Professor of Psychological and Brain Sciences at the University of Louisville.

Depression is more likely to go undiagnosed and untreated in older, than younger, adults, previous research has shown. Untreated, depression can increase risk of death in the elderly. In studies, depression has been associated with an increased risk of death following a heart attack.

Warning signs of depression in the elderly include: sadness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, feelings of worthlessness, recurrent thoughts about death, as well as changes in sleep, appetite, or the ability to concentrate.

About AGS
Founded in 1942, the American Geriatrics Society (http://www.americangeriatrics.org) is a nationwide, not-for-profit association of geriatrics health care professionals dedicated to improving the health, independence and quality of life of all older people. The Society supports this mission through activities in clinical practice, professional and public education, research and public policy. With an active membership of over 6,700 health care professionals, the Society has become a pivotal force in shaping attitudes, policies and practices in geriatric medicine. The American Geriatrics Society Annual Meeting, the premier scientific meeting for geriatrics health care providers, educators, and researchers, began May 11 and runs through May 15.