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Major depressive disorder (MDD), one type of depression, is one of the most common psychiatric conditions worldwide. It is characterized by persistent low mood and a loss of interest in everyday activities, along with changes in sleep, appetite and motivation.

There are several known factors that can influence the emergence of depression, including inherited genetic characteristics, adverse childhood events and physical activity. Some individuals can have an increased inherited likelihood of developing depression, referred to as genetic risk.

Researchers at the University of Texas at San Antonio recently analyzed genetic information, electronic health records and fitness tracker data collected from thousands of people in the U.S. to explore the relationship between the genetic risk of developing depression, physical activity and depressive symptoms. Their findings, published in Nature Mental Health, suggest that physical activity could weaken the relationship between people's genetic risk of depression and the severity of their symptoms.

"Physical activity is one of the most powerful forms of behavioral medicine, with well-established benefits for many chronic and mental health conditions, including depression," Qiliang He, first author of the paper, told Medical Xpress.

"However, much of the previous research has relied on self-reported physical activity or measurements collected over relatively short periods, often just one week. These approaches may not accurately capture how physically active people are in their everyday lives.

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