Allergies and Major Depression: A Longitudinal Study
Author Information
Author(s): Scott B Patten, Jeanne VA Williams, Dina H Lavorato, Michael Eliasziw
Primary Institution: University of Calgary
Hypothesis
Is there a longitudinal association between allergies and major depression?
Conclusion
The study found that major depression is associated with an increased risk of developing non-food allergies.
Supporting Evidence
- Major depression was associated with a 19.3% incidence of non-food allergies.
- The overall incidence of non-food allergies was 14.1% during the first two years of follow-up.
- Women and younger age groups showed higher incidence rates of non-food allergies.
- Childhood stressors were linked to increased allergy incidence.
Takeaway
People who are very sad and have major depression might be more likely to develop allergies that aren't related to food.
Methodology
The study used data from the Canadian National Population Health Survey and followed a cohort from 1994 to 2002, assessing major depression and allergies.
Potential Biases
Potential misclassification bias due to the use of a brief diagnostic instrument for depression.
Limitations
The study could not definitively determine the timing of the onset of depression or allergies.
Participant Demographics
Participants were over the age of 12 at the time of the initial interview in 1994.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.046
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.0 – 1.5
Statistical Significance
p = 0.046
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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