A Case-Control Study of the Association Between Hypocholesterolemia and Depressive Symptoms in a Mexican Population from Los Altos Sur, Jalisco

Mental disorders have significantly increased worldwide, with depression affecting over 280 million people. Up to 60% of individuals with major depressive disorder experience concurrent anxiety, both of which can lead to suicide. While social and cultural factors contribute to mental disorders, recent studies link these conditions to genetic, neurophysiological, and biochemical factors, including serum lipid levels. This study investigates the association between serum lipid levels and depressive symptoms in the Los Altos Sur region of Jalisco, Mexico. Forty-two participants with depressive symptoms and eighty-four controls were recruited. Participants underwent psychometric assessments and lipid profile assays. The results showed significant differences between cases and controls in total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and VLDL levels. Cases had higher rates of hypocholesterolemia and more frequent depressive and anxiety symptoms, as well suicidal risk. Hypocholesterolemia was significantly associated with depressive symptoms. Differences for cases grouped by depressive symptoms and hopelessness were found in HDL. Physical activity was found as a protective factor for depressive and anxiety symptoms. This study demonstrates the association of serum lipid levels with mental health conditions, suggesting that cholesterol levels are related to increased vulnerability to depression and hopelessness. Understanding these associations can aid in early identification and intervention for at-risk populations.