Grant: CIHR Fellowship

Depression is a serious health condition that can significantly impact brain health. In Latino communities, which are often underrepresented in medical research, the effects of depression on the brain are not well understood. This is concerning because Latinos are the largest minority group in the United States and experience high rates of depression. Depression is known to increase the risk of dementia, a condition where memory and thinking abilities decline over time. Our research aims to explore how depression affects brain health in Latino populations. We will examine blood-based markers of brain health and cognitive function to better understand how depression contributes to cognitive decline. By studying these markers, we hope to uncover early signs of cognitive impairment in individuals with depression. This research could help identify people at higher risk of developing dementia and lead to better monitoring and treatment strategies. Latino communities have unique social, cultural, and genetic factors that may affect how depression impacts brain health. By focusing on this group, we aim to address an important gap in research and develop tailored guidelines for managing depression. Ultimately, our goal is to reduce the risk of dementia in Latino communities by improving early detection and treatment of mental health conditions like depression.