The interplay of polygenic risk scores, lifestyle behaviors, anxiety, and depression progression amid COVID-19 waves: a comprehensive genomic and behavioral analysis of the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging

Project Summary

This study delves into the intricate interplay of genetic predispositions, lifestyle behaviors, and the progression of anxiety and depression symptoms amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The research leverages data from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA), a comprehensive study including genomic data from 22,622 men and women between the ages of 45 and 85 over 20 years. Genetic factors have been identified as significant contributors to the risk of developing anxiety and depression. Nonetheless, the extent to which lifestyle and behavioral characteristics can offset these genetic risks remains unclear. Further complicating this issue are the unprecedented effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health. In addition, previous research efforts have attempted to shed more light on the potential long-term impacts of these difficulties on older adults but have been fraught with limitations. The present study attempts to bridge these gaps via a more in-depth and extensive analysis.