Comment from Depression Alliance

Although this new research is veryworrying, it is important to note that a link between an increased risk ofcancer and Prozac use has not yet been established. Much more research intothis topic must be done.

Depression Alliance would stronglyrecommend that people do not stop using their medication suddenly but seekadvice from their doctor or pharmacist if they are worried.

Depression is one of the most common conditions in the UK, affecting onein five people at some stage in their life. It is also one of the mostmisunderstood. The World HealthOrganisation estimates that by 2020 depression will be the biggest globalhealth concern after chronic heart disease.

We believe that the stigma and lack of accurate information surroundingdepression continues to prevent those affected from seeking and finding helpwhen it is required. Depression is atreatable illness but at worst it can be fatal. 70% of recorded suicides are by people affected by some form ofdepression.

We are concerned at the way TheIndependent has treated this subject. Thequest for a sensational headline is not a justifiable reason to sow seeds ofdoubt that could lead to people not taking prescribed medication. We must allwork together to change attitudes and do all we can to beat depression.