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Study Links Genetics to Early-Onset Major Depression Risk

11/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A Nature Genetics study of over 150,000 individuals identifies twelve genetic regions linked to early-onset major depressive disorder.
Early-onset depression shows heritability of 11.2%, roughly double the 6% for late-onset depression.
The findings show early-onset depression carries higher suicide risk and more severe outcomes, which may guide treatment and prevention.
The study notes limitations, including a focus on European ancestry, underscoring the need for diverse populations in future research.

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Story summary

A Nature Genetics study of over 150,000 individuals identifies twelve genetic regions linked to early-onset major depressive disorder.
Early-onset depression shows heritability of 11.2%, roughly double the 6% for late-onset depression.
The findings show early-onset depression carries higher suicide risk and more severe outcomes, which may guide treatment and prevention.
The study notes limitations, including a focus on European ancestry, underscoring the need for diverse populations in future research.