Recent research reveals that nearly 50% of global dementia cases could be delayed or entirely prevented by targeting over a dozen potential risk factors. With dementia currently impacting an estimated 57 million people worldwide, experts predict this number could soar to 153 million by 2050.
In a recent study, a research team led by psychiatry professor Dr. Gill Livingston identified 14 risk factors that, if managed effectively, could significantly reduce dementia rates.
In their research, they validated the 12 modifiable risk factors previously identified in reports from 2017 and 2020. Additionally, they uncovered new evidence highlighting two more risk factors: vision impairment and elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.
“Contrary to common belief, dementia is not an inevitable part of aging. According to Dr. Gill Livingston in an interview with The Guardian, there are significant steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing dementia or delay its onset. The report highlights that while prolonged exposure to risk factors has a more pronounced impact, it’s important to remember that it’s never too early or too late to make lifestyle changes to protect your brain health.”
Tackling these 14 adjustable risk factors could potentially decrease global dementia rates by 45%. While dementia prevalence is on the decline in high-income nations, it remains on the rise in low- and middle-income regions.
Moreover, minimizing these 14 risk factors could extend the years of healthy living for individuals with dementia. In high-income countries, this approach may allow people to enjoy more dementia-free years. Additionally, participating in activities tailored to personal abilities and interests can help reduce dementia-related symptoms and enhance overall quality of life.
The team introduced a comprehensive dementia prevention program designed for integration into policies, communities, and personal healthcare. The program outlines key actions to be taken throughout a person’s life to help mitigate the risk of dementia.
To enhance early life, it’s crucial to elevate general awareness and education about dementia. During midlife, tackling health concerns like hearing loss, physical inactivity, elevated LDL cholesterol, depression, traumatic brain injuries, diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, and excessive alcohol consumption becomes essential. In the later stages of life, addressing factors like air pollution, social isolation, and vision impairment is vital.
Researchers estimate that up to 45% of global dementia risk could be mitigated. This estimate assumes that the identified risk factors are both causal and modifiable.
The study highlights the crucial importance of dementia prevention, particularly given the swift increase in aging populations worldwide. Addressing risk factors early can significantly benefit both individuals and their families, leading to positive outcomes.
Achieving these goals also demands significant dedication from policymakers and health professionals. They can use the report as a strategic framework to guide their efforts in enhancing public health outcomes.
The research team has highlighted the necessity for additional studies to uncover other potential risk factors and to perform clinical trials that assess the impact of these risk factors.
The findings were published in the journal The Lancet.