Link Between Childhood Depression and Respiratory Health in Young Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Wang Gang MD, PhD, Hallberg Jenny PhD, Hernandez-Pacheco Natalia PhD, Ekström Sandra PhD, Vercalsteren Ellen PhD, Brew Bronwyn K. PhD, Almqvist Catarina PhD, MD, Janson Christer PhD, MD, Kull Inger PhD, MD, Bergström Anna PhD, Melén Erik PhD, MD, Lu Donghao PhD, MD
Primary Institution: Division of Internal Medicine, Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
Hypothesis
This study aims to explore the association between depression in childhood to early adulthood and respiratory health outcomes in early adulthood.
Conclusion
Depression in childhood to early adulthood was associated with an increased risk of respiratory ill-health in early adulthood, independently of smoking.
Supporting Evidence
- Depression was associated with higher risks of chronic bronchitis symptoms and respiratory symptoms in early adulthood.
- Participants with depression had a higher fat mass index and increased blood levels of certain inflammatory markers.
- Metabolic and inflammatory dysregulations may underlie the link between depression and respiratory health.
Takeaway
Kids who feel really sad or depressed can have trouble breathing when they grow up, even if they don't smoke.
Methodology
A prospective study based on the Swedish BAMSE birth cohort, assessing depression through antidepressant dispensations and self-reported diagnoses, and respiratory health via questionnaires and clinical evaluations at a 24-year follow-up.
Potential Biases
Participants included were more likely to be female and had higher parental education levels, which may introduce selection bias.
Limitations
The study may not capture all cases of depression as it relies on antidepressant prescriptions and self-reports, and it assumes stability of biomarkers over time.
Participant Demographics
The study included 2994 participants, with 1586 females, and a median age of 24 years at follow-up.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.21–2.06
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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