Can You Reduce Your Risk of Dementia? Two Key Modifiable Factors
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Chapter 1: Understanding the New Research on Dementia
Recent findings have revealed two significant risk factors associated with dementia. Although this news may seem concerning, there is an encouraging aspect: these factors are "modifiable," indicating they can be managed and potentially reversed.
A systematic review published by The Lancet Commission last month uncovered that low cholesterol levels before the age of 40, along with untreated vision impairment, have been added to the list of modifiable risks for dementia. This brings the total to 14 factors that can influence one's risk of developing this condition.
Section 1.1: The Modifiable Risk Factors
Among the modifiable factors identified by The Lancet Commission are high blood pressure, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, lower educational levels, and social isolation. The report indicates that nearly half of all dementia cases globally can be traced back to these 14 risk factors, many of which can be addressed through appropriate interventions by both individuals and policymakers.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Importance of Prevention
The study emphasizes that as life expectancy rises, so does the prevalence of dementia, underscoring the significance of effective prevention strategies. High LDL cholesterol is implicated in seven percent of dementia cases, while untreated vision issues contribute to two percent. Dr. Arman Fesharaki-Zadeh, a behavioral neurologist at Yale Medicine, elaborated that the inclusion of high cholesterol and vision loss as risk factors "makes mechanical sense."
Section 1.2: The Impact of Cholesterol and Vision Loss
He explained that certain brain areas are particularly susceptible to damage from hardened blood vessels due to high cholesterol levels. Blocked or stiffened arteries can harm the brain, potentially leading to neurodegeneration—a finding consistent with earlier studies that link traumatic brain injuries to dementia risk.
Vision loss, as noted by Fesharaki-Zadeh, is critical for maintaining cognitive engagement. If vision declines without treatment, individuals may cease participating in activities that bolster cognitive health, such as reading or socializing—both known risk factors for dementia.
Chapter 2: The Complexity of Dementia
While this research sheds light on several modifiable factors, it’s crucial to understand that not all dementia and Alzheimer’s cases stem from the 14 factors identified by The Lancet Commission. Genetics can heavily influence some cases, and researchers caution that the associations identified in their study may not be strictly causal.
The first video titled "Dementia is preventable through lifestyle. Start now." by Max Lugavere at TEDxVeniceBeach explores how lifestyle changes can combat dementia risk. The insights provided can empower individuals to make proactive choices regarding their health.
The second video, "Dementia could start in your blood vessels - eat these foods to keep your mind sharp" by Dr. William Li, discusses dietary choices that may protect cognitive function, highlighting the connection between nutrition and brain health.
The research serves as a powerful reminder of the human brain and body's remarkable adaptability and the interconnectedness of their systems. It emphasizes that maintaining mental and physical health is a wise strategy, and that cognitive decline isn’t necessarily unavoidable.
“We must combat neurologic nihilism,” stated Glen R. Finney, a fellow of the American Academy of Neurology, in response to the commission’s findings shared by CNN last month. “We can protect and assist the brain and should!”
In conclusion, the Lancet Commission’s report calls for immediate action: “Despite gaps in our understanding of risk, we should not delay, as there are ways to reduce the likelihood of developing dementia, benefiting individuals, families, and society.”