Grant: Operating Grant

The proposed study is to develop and validate risk algorithms (or risk estimation equation) for major depression in the Canadian general population. The development and validation of such algorithms will take advantage of the unique features of the longitudinal cohort of the National Population Health Survey (NPHS). We will use the NPHS data from 1994/95 to 2008/09 (8 cycles) to develop risk estimate equations for 2-year, 4-year, 6-year and 8-year risk of major depression. We will identify a set of key risk factors which are included in the prediction algorithms. The developed algorithms will be validated internally using the NPHS data. The risk algorithms can be used to describe and monitor the risk profiles for major depression in the Canadian general population, suggest interventions based on risk, and quantify the health benefits of interventions at the population level.