New studies clarify link between depression and Alzheimer's

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By Beth Boehne

Story Created: Apr 9, 2008 at 9:11 PM EDT

Story Updated: Apr 9, 2008 at 9:13 PM EDT

(CNN) — There is new research on the link between depression and Alzheimer's.

Two new studies suggest depression is a risk factor rather than a symptom of the brain altering ailment.

Dutch researchers found that people who experienced depression were two and a half times more likely to develop Alzheimer's.

If the depression showed up before age 60, the risk was four times higher.

A second study found although people with depression may be more likely to develop Alzheimer's, the symptoms don't seem to increase before the Alzheimer's diagnosis is made.

It is unclear whether depression contributes to Alzheimer's or whether another factor causes both problems.

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