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Minister Patterson launches major study into links between hormones and depression

The study is being conducted by the Jean Hailes Foundation and is investigating hormone levels in women at different ages and different stages of life, and the relationship between women's hormones and other health issues, particularly depression.

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24 April 2002
KP34/02

Minister Patterson launches major study into links between hormones and depression

Federal Minister for Health and Ageing, Senator Kay Patterson, launched a major study into women's health today in Melbourne.

The study is being conducted by the Jean Hailes Foundation and is investigating hormone levels in women at different ages and different stages of life, and the relationship between women's hormones and other health issues, particularly depression.

"This project represents a significant step forward in learning more about a condition which continues to affect the health of not only women, but the general population," Senator Patterson said.

"In any given year almost 800,000 Australian adults will experience an episode of depressive illness, and over 500,000 of these people will be women. Many will also experience stigma and discrimination due to lack of understanding of their illness.

"This Government has long recognised the high impact of depression, not only in personal, but in social and economic terms. I encourage anyone experiencing an episode of depression to seek treatment."

The Commonwealth Government has committed funding of $17.5 million over five years to beyondblue, the National Depression Initiative.

In turn, beyondblue is funding a major national study into post-natal depression as one of its current projects.

Minister Patterson commended Australian businesswoman, Sue Ismiel, for her donation of over $600,000 to this project.

"This very generous donation demonstrates the power of business/community relationships in making a difference," she said.

Women from across Victoria will be participating in the study, to ensure a broad view of women's health and lifestyles.

Media Contact: Marnie Gaffney, Senator Patterson's Office, 03 9657 9577