Bruce Abrahamse

Bruce Abrahamse

August 8, 2024

Almost Half of Dementia Cases Could Be Prevented By Addressing These 14 Risk Factors Starting in Childhood

Dementia cases are rising every year, with the current statistics stating that there are currently 55 million afflicted individuals worldwide. However, a new study has found that around half of these cases could be prevented by simply addressing 14 dementia risk factors early on in life. Thanks to studies such as this one, we are beginning to see an acceleration in the progress of dementia prevention and treatment. 

The 14 Dementia Risk Factors 

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A report in 2020 had previously identified 12 dementia risk factors that should be addressed as early as childhood in high-risk individuals. These dementia risk factors were lower education, physical inactivity, head injury, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, hearing loss, depression, air pollution, and infrequent social contact. However, two more risk factors were recently added to the list (vision loss and high cholesterol). 

Read More: Woman Who Had Dementia For 5 Years Turned Out To Have A Common And Reversible Condition

Education

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Two key factors that help reduce the risk of developing dementia are early education and lifelong cognitive stimulation. The lack of early education can result in a lower ‘cognitive reserve’. Education actively builds cognitive reserve by enhancing the brain’s ability to adapt and compensate for age-related changes. Studies have found that people with a higher level of education are therefore less likely to develop dementia later in life. [1]

Hearing Loss

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⁤⁤Researchers have found that untreated hearing loss can potentially lead to depression, social isolation, and cognitive decline in individuals. ⁤⁤A study undertaken by the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that older individuals who suffered severe hearing loss were more likely to develop dementia. ⁤⁤Yet, those individuals who used hearing aids exhibited a lower chance of developing dementia. [2]

High Blood Pressure

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Studies have found that managing hypertension is essential for lowering the risk of dementia, particularly around middle age. High systolic blood pressure can cause vascular damage in the brain, which increases one’s likelihood of developing certain diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia. Blood pressure can be controlled with lifestyle modifications such as eating a good diet, frequently exercising, and taking applicable medications. [3]

Read More: 19-year-old man is youngest ever patient to be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s

Smoking

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Smoking is known to damage blood vessels and reduce the supply of oxygen to the brain. This can lead to cognitive decline and even Alzheimer’s disease. Studies have shown that smokers are said to be 30% more likely to develop dementia when compared to non-smokers. Additionally, they are also 40% more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. [4]

Obesity

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Obesity has also been noted as a potential dementia risk factor. This is partly due to the role that a person’s weight plays in contributing to other health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. All of these conditions can have a negative impact on brain health. Obesity contributes to inflammation and changes in brain structure, which can potentially increase the risk of cognitive decline. [5]

Depression

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Depression can also contribute to cognitive decline due to changes in brain structure and neuroinflammation. It also contributes to mental health due to reduced engagement in mental and social activities. Health practitioners state that getting effective treatment for depression is critical for potentially reducing the risk of dementia. Studies have found that addressing depression early and maintaining good mental health can have significant long-term benefits for cognitive function.

Physical Inactivity

woman standing in kitchen

Physical inactivity can restrict blood flow to your brain, potentially contributing to the development of dementia. Sedentary behavior can also cause chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, which can damage brain cells and increase the risk of developing dementia. Physical inactivity has also been linked to poor cognitive functioning, including a noticeable reduction in processing speed and memory. 

Diabetes

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Diabetes is regarded as a dementia risk factor because high blood sugar levels damage blood vessels and nerves. This reduces blood flow to the brain, which can lead to cognitive decline and increased risk of dementia. Additionally, diabetes often occurs alongside other dementia risk factors, such as high blood pressure and obesity.

Alcohol

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Excessive alcohol consumption is a dementia risk factor because it can lead to brain cell damage and shrinkage. It also causes inflammation, oxidative stress, and nutrient deficiencies (especially thiamine). Excessive alcohol consumption also increases the risk of sustaining head injuries and strokes. It can also potentially worsen existing health conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.

Traumatic Brain Injury

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A traumatic brain injury can cause direct damage to brain cells and disrupt brain function. This can lead to chronic inflammation and the buildup of toxic proteins typically associated with dementia. This can potentially lead to long-term emotional and cognitive changes. The risk is higher for individuals who have sustained repeated head injuries, such as sportsmen and women. 

Air Pollution

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Air pollution exposure, specifically fine particulate matter, has been connected to cognitive impairment and an increased chance of developing dementia. There are several ways to improve the air quality of your home. These include bringing in more plants, using High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, and cleaning your ducts regularly. 

Social Isolation

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Social isolation has also been noted as a dementia risk factor. Studies show that maintaining friendship connections and engaging in social activities are vital for brain health. There are many ways to become more socially active, including volunteering, going to markets, and video chatting with friends. 

Vision Impairment

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In a recent study, the donated tissue of 86 patients who suffered from mental decline was examined. The researchers discovered that retinal changes correlated with changes in areas of the brain connected to time perception and memory. 

High Cholesterol

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High Cholesterol was another dementia risk factor recently added to the list. The researchers found that high levels of LDL cholesterol can contribute to vascular problems, which increases the risk of developing dementia. Therefore, managing cholesterol levels through diet, exercise, and medication is vital.

Read More: The Cause of Alzheimer’s Could Be Coming From Inside Your Mouth, Study Claims

Sources

  1. Education and Dementia in the Context of the Cognitive Reserve Hypothesis: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analyses and Qualitative Analyses.” PLOS. Xiangfei Meng and Carl D’Arcy. June 4, 2012.
  2. New Study Links Hearing Loss With Dementia in Older Adults.” Public Health. January 10, 2023.
  3. Healthier blood pressure means lower dementia risk, study finds.” Knowridge. August 3, 2024
  4. Smoking harms the brain, raises dementia risk – but not if you quit.” Heart. July 6, 2021
  5. Is metabolic-healthy obesity associated with risk of dementia? An age-stratified analysis of the Whitehall II cohort study.” Biomed Central. Marcos D. Machado-Fragua, et al. November 14, 2023.