BreakingNews: half of dementia cases could be prevented, study reveals

In a groundbreaking study published in The Lancet, experts reveal that nearly half of dementia cases worldwide could be prevented or delayed. Dementia, a term for various diseases affecting memory, thinking, and daily activities, is a leading cause of disability and death globally, predominantly impacting older individuals.

The research, conducted by 27 leading dementia experts, identifies 14 modifiable risk factors that, if addressed, could reduce 45% of dementia cases. These include high cholesterol, untreated vision loss, lower levels of education, and lifestyle factors like smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity.

Prof Gill Livingston, the study’s lead author, emphasizes the hope these findings bring: “Nearly half of dementias could theoretically be prevented by eliminating these 14 risk factors.”

The number of people living with dementia is projected to nearly triple to 153 million by 2050, posing a significant threat to global health and social care systems. Current global health and social costs linked to dementia exceed $1 trillion annually.

Key recommendations from the study include providing good-quality education, making hearing aids accessible, reducing harmful noise, treating high cholesterol from age 40, and encouraging regular exercise and cognitive activity throughout life.

Fiona Carragher of Alzheimer’s Society highlights the importance of societal-level interventions for factors like social isolation and air pollution. Dr. Susan Kohlhaas of Alzheimer’s Research UK notes the “huge opportunity” for preventive measures to reduce dementia’s impact.

This research offers a promising pathway to a future where dementia’s devastating effects are significantly mitigated, improving quality of life for millions worldwide.