Scientists Recently Uncover New Risk Factors of Dementia in Major Report

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Dementia, a complex and often devastating condition that robs people of their memories, continues to challenge scientists and healthcare professionals as they work to uncover its many contributing factors.

Recent research has added two more elements to the list of dementia risk factors, but there's a silver lining: these new factors are "modifiable," meaning they can be managed or even reversed.

The Latest Findings

A comprehensive review conducted by scientists affiliated with The Lancet Commission has revealed that high cholesterol levels in individuals under 40 and untreated vision loss are significant contributors to dementia risk.

Published in The Lancet, this study adds these factors to an existing list of 14 modifiable risk factors, which also include high blood pressure, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, lack of education, and social isolation, among others. Remarkably, nearly half of global dementia cases can be traced back to these modifiable factors.

Photo byLivingston et al. (2024), The Lancet.

"As people live longer, the number of individuals living with dementia continues to rise," the researchers note, underscoring the importance of identifying and implementing prevention strategies.

The Science Behind Cholesterol and Vision Loss

The study highlights that high levels of LDL cholesterol are linked to approximately 7% of dementia cases. Untreated vision loss in later life accounts for around 2% of cases.

Yale Medicine behavioral neurologist and neuropsychiatrist Arman Fesharaki-Zadeh, who was not involved in the study, commented that the connection between these risk factors and dementia makes "mechanical sense."

Cholesterol, particularly when it clogs arteries, can damage specific brain areas that are vulnerable to blood vessel hardening. This hardening can lead to neurodegeneration, contributing to conditions like dementia. This finding aligns with previous research by the commission that identified traumatic brain injury as another dementia risk factor.

Regarding vision loss, Fesharaki-Zadeh explained that as a primary sense, declining vision can lead to reduced engagement in cognitive activities such as reading or socializing. These activities are crucial for maintaining brain health, and their absence may increase the risk of developing dementia.

The Bigger Picture

While these findings offer new insights, it's important to recognize that dementia is a multifaceted condition. Many cases, particularly those with a strong genetic component, may not be influenced by these 14 modifiable risk factors.

But this research reinforces the interconnectedness of the human body and mind. It serves as a reminder that caring for both is essential and that the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like dementia is not always inevitable.

As Glen R. Finney, a fellow of the American Academy of Neurology, said, "We have to fight neurologic nihilism. We can protect and help the brain and should!" The Lancet Commission echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that while there are gaps in our understanding, proactive measures can reduce the risk of dementia, benefiting individuals, families, and society as a whole.

In conclusion, while science continues to unravel the mysteries of dementia, taking steps to manage factors like cholesterol and vision loss could significantly impact your long-term brain health. It's a proactive approach that could make all the difference in the fight against dementia.