It’s the old conundrum - what came first the chicken or the egg? Just so when we come to the issue of Dementia? The question is - does depression cause Dementia or is it the consequence of depression? Many research projects have focused on the line of controversy. Do we now have a definite answer? We all know from statistics that - correlation doesn’t equal causation - but is this hypothesis regarding causation dead as the Dodo? In The Times they address the topic in: Did Depression give Mum Dementia by Anthea Rowan. I worked in adult psychiatry in the 1970’s for many years and have often thought there was a correlation, between the two. It’s good that this is now confirmed by the latest research. If the NHS wants to reduce the costs of caring for people with Dementia - then start with the early treatment of depression? In the long run its a - cost benefit analysis on a longitudinal basis. Wake up Wes Streeting, to this new data and research.
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