Does depression increase the risk of dementia? Updated meta-analysis of prospective studies

Abstract

Background. Our primary aim was to conduct an update meta-analysis of prospective studies investigating the association between depression and dementia risk.

Methods. We searched Pubmed database to identify all relevant papers published from January 2014 to March 2019. Prospective studies with a minimum follow-up period of 1 year, baseline depression assessment, absence of dementia or mild cognitive impairment at baseline were selected. We calculated pooled relative risks (RR), with a random effect model, as well as compute population attributable fraction (PAF) of dementia due to depression.

Results. Eight cohorts were included. A statistically significant association between depression and dementia risk, with a pooled RR of 1.63 (95% CI: 1.30-2.04), and a PAF of 9.0% (95% CI: 4.5%-14.1%), were found.

Conclusions. Depression is associated with an increased risk of dementia in this meta-analysis.