Inflammation and accelerated aging in major depressive disorder: a population health perspective using the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a complex condition that is associated with accelerated aging and frailty. The increasing proportion of Canadians over the age of 60 makes MDD a major public health concern due to its prevalence, and association with health impairments and mortality. Accumulating evidence indicates that inflammation contributes to symptoms of MDD in at least a subset of people. It is not, however, known whether the inflammation associated with some cases of MDD contributes to accelerated aging. The aim of the proposed study is to establish a research program that explores the link between MDD and accelerated aging in the CLSA. We plan to explore cross-sectionally, the joint effect of inflammation and MDD on frailty as an indicator of accelerated aging.