- Researchers studied links between aging and depression.
- They used blood tests from many women participants.
- The tests measured aging in white blood cells.
- One type of white blood cell was important.
- Depression has mood symptoms and physical symptoms.
- Mood symptoms include hopelessness and loss of pleasure.
- Aging in these cells was linked to mood problems.
- A different aging test did not show this link.
- Scientists say more research is needed before tests.
- The work may help diagnosis and treatment later.
Difficult words
- researcher — a person who studies facts and dataResearchers
- measure — to check or find the size or amountmeasured
- white blood cell — a cell in blood that helps fight infectionwhite blood cells
- depression — a mental illness with low mood and sadness
- symptom — a sign that shows a person is sicksymptoms
- hopelessness — a feeling of no hope or very low hope
- diagnosis — a doctor's decision about a person's illness
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you ever had a blood test?
- Can you name a mood symptom from the article?
- Would you like more research on this topic?
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