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Study Reveals Major Genetic Differences in Depression Between Women and Men

Women have nearly twice as many genetic markers for depression as men, according to a new study. This discovery could help explain why depression is more common in women and pave the way for tailored treatments.

In this picture, I can see women standing and smiling so behind this woman i can see few trees.
In this picture, I can see women standing and smiling so behind this woman i can see few trees.

Study Reveals Major Genetic Differences in Depression Between Women and Men

A groundbreaking study has shed new light on the biological differences between depression in women and men. The research, published in Nature Communications, examined the DNA of nearly 200,000 people and found significant disparities in genetic markers linked to the condition.

The study, led by researchers at the Australian QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, including Brittany Mitchell and Jodi Thomas, discovered that around 13,000 genetic markers are associated with depression in women, compared to 7,000 in men. This suggests that women have almost twice as many genetic 'markers' for depression as affected men.

The findings provide new insights into why depression is more common in women. Some genetic differences may explain why women with depression often experience metabolic symptoms like weight changes or fluctuating energy levels. The genetic component of depression is larger in women compared to men, with women having a higher risk of developing clinical depression.

This research, one of the largest on depression, could pave the way for more personalized treatment. By understanding the cross-gender factors contributing to depression, healthcare professionals can tailor treatments to better suit individual needs. Depression affects over 300 million people worldwide, making these findings a significant step towards improving mental health care.

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