Lipid trajectories as predictors of depressive symptoms: the Young Finns Study

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to identify common trajectories of lipid levels across childhood and early adulthood life span.

Design: The sample was a subpopulation of 824 young adults (3 to 9 years of age at baseline in 1980) of the ongoing population-based prospective Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finns Study. Lipid levels were determined in 1980, 1983, 1986, and 2001.

Main outcome measures: Depressive symptoms were assessed using a modified version of Beck's Depression Inventory (Beck, 1967) in 1992 and 2001.

Results: The 2 triglycerides trajectories (steeply vs. moderately increasing) were differently related to depressive symptoms in adulthood. The trajectory showing steep increase over time was associated with higher level of depressive symptoms (M 2.18, 95% CI [2.08, 2.28] vs. 1.99, [1.95, 2.04]). This relationship persisted after adjustments for various risk factors. These triglycerides trajectories accounted for part of the association between high body mass index and depressive symptoms.

Conclusion: A pattern of steeply increasing triglyceride levels throughout childhood and adulthood may be associated with increased the risk of depressive symptoms in adulthood. This pattern may also be one link between obesity and depressive symptoms.