A new study led by scientists at Van Andel Institute (VAI) has reported that signs of inflammation in the blood can predict and identify severe depression in pregnancy. The study was published in ‘Translational Psychiatry’. According to the new study, the scientists has established a set of 15 biological markers found in the blood that can predict if pregnant women will experience significant depressive symptoms with 83 per cent accuracy.
“DEPRESSION ISN’T JUST SOMETHING THAT HAPPENS IN THE BRAIN—ITS FINGERPRINTS ARE EVERYWHERE IN THE BODY, INCLUDING IN OUR BLOOD,” SAID LENA BRUNDIN, M.D., PH.D., A VAI PROFESSOR AND CO-SENIOR AUTHOR OF THE STUDY.
It is found that one in five new mothers experience severe depression during or post-pregnancy. Around 14% of mothers have suicidal thoughts. With the help of this study, physicians can help women who may be at a risk for depression.