Correlation between digestive diseases and depression in older adults

SGGP 16/09/2023 07:03

Researchers at the University of Michigan have discovered a remarkable link between loneliness, depression, and increased rates of digestive disorders in older adults.

Illustration from Neuroscience News

Neuroscience News reports that, according to data from the University of Michigan's study on health and retirement, among 7,110 older adults, 56% suffered from digestive disorders and 44% did not. Of those with digestive disorders, 60.4% reported loneliness, 12.7% experienced severe depression, and 8.9% felt socially isolated. Among those without digestive disorders, these figures were 55.6%, 7.5%, and 8.7%, respectively.

According to gastroenterologist Shirley Ann Cohen-Mekelburg, current approaches often fail to account for psychosocial factors in a patient's overall health. She hopes these findings will empower gastroenterologists to “screen patients for depression and loneliness,” in addition to their physical symptoms, in order to provide holistic care.

Source: https://www.sggp.org.vn/moi-tuong-quan-giua-benh-tieu-hoa-va-tram-cam-o-nguoi-lon-tuoi-post705807.html