Depression in people with Multiple Sclerosis

Project Details

Depression in people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is common with a lifetime prevalence of about 50% and is associated with worse health outcomes. Similarly, obesity is common in people with MS and implicated in the onset, as well as worse health outcomes. We are looking at the association between being overweight/obese and depression in people with MS through a systematic review of the literature, and using a representative sample of people with MS from the Australian Multiple Sclerosis Longitudinal Study.

Through a study led by Swinburne researcher Dr Lisa Grech we are also assessing under-treatment of depression in people with MS, as depressive symptoms may not be recognised or appropriately treated in people with MS. The findings aim to inform a better understanding of the complex relationship and better screening and treatment for weight management and depression.

Researchers

Dr Claudia Marck, University of Melbourne
Ms Sreya Slodh, University of Melbourne
Dr Emily Karahalios, University of Melbourne
Dr Yasmine Probst, University of Wollongong
A/Prof Ingrid van der Mei, University of Tasmania
Dr Lisa Grech, Swinburne University

Funding

National Health and Medical Research Council Early Career Fellowship