<p>According to the <strong>World Health Organization (WHO)</strong>, around fifty million people worldwide have dementia, and about ten million more cases are added every year [<a href=”#1″>1</a>]. This highlights the importance of preventing dementia, as it is not a normal part of aging and has significant physical, psychological, social, and economic impacts on individuals and society as a whole. Extensive research has been conducted over the years to identify the causes of dementia, with recent updates from <em>The Lancet Commission on dementia prevention, intervention, and care</em> defining twelve modifiable risk factors that can prevent or delay up to forty percent of dementia cases [<a href=”#2″>2</a>].</p>
<h2 id=”1″>Modifiable Risk Factors for Preventing Dementia</h2>
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<p>In 2017, The Lancet Commission identified nine modifiable risk factors for preventing dementia, including:</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Education:</strong> Lower educational levels may increase vulnerability to dementia. Education provides cognitive skills and intellectual stimulation, building resilience against cognitive decline.</li>
<li><strong>Hypertension:</strong> High blood pressure can lead to cognitive impairment by damaging brain blood vessels. Managing hypertension is crucial.</li>
<li><strong>Hearing Impairment:</strong> Untreated hearing loss is linked to cognitive decline. Early intervention is essential.</li>
<li><strong>Smoking:</strong> Smoking can damage brain blood vessels, increasing dementia risk. Quitting smoking improves health outcomes.</li>
<li><strong>Obesity:</strong> Obesity is associated with cardiovascular risk factors that contribute to cognitive decline. Maintaining a healthy weight is key.</li>
<li><strong>Depression:</strong> Depression accelerates brain aging and increases cognitive decline risk. Treating depression is essential for mental health.</li>
<li><strong>Physical Inactivity:</strong> Sedentary lifestyle increases cognitive decline risk. Regular physical activity promotes brain health.</li>
<li><strong>Diabetes:</strong> Diabetes disrupts brain function. Managing blood sugar levels is crucial for dementia prevention.</li>
<li><strong>Low Social Contact:</strong> Social isolation contributes to cognitive decline. Engaging in social activities is important for cognitive health.</li>
</ol>
<p><a href=”#2″>Continue reading here for the remaining risk factors and recommendations</a>.</p>
<h2 id=”2″>Socioeconomic Status and Dementia</h2>
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<p>The proportion of older people with dementia has decreased in some countries due to improvements in education, nutrition, healthcare, and lifestyle changes. However, dementia is on the rise in low and middle-income countries, where most affected individuals reside. Addressing the inequalities that increase dementia risk is crucial for preventing the condition. Lead author, Professor Gill Livingston, emphasizes the importance of interventions in vulnerable populations to lower global dementia rates [<a href=”#2″>2</a>].</p>
<p><strong>Ready the full article for more information on preventing dementia in your community</strong>.</p>
<h2 id=”3″>A New Approach to Preventing Dementia</h2>
<p><img src=”image.jpg” alt=”Image Credit: Pexels”></p>
<p>Creating active and healthy environments can reduce dementia risk by encouraging physical activity, offering healthy diets, and minimizing alcohol consumption. The authors recommend ambitious steps for policymakers and individuals to prevent dementia, including:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Maintain Healthy Blood Pressure:</strong> Keeping blood pressure below 130 mm Hg after 40 years reduces dementia risk.</li>
<li><strong>Protect Hearing and Wear Hearing Aids:</strong> Early intervention for hearing loss is essential for cognitive health.</li>
<li><strong>Reduce Exposure to Air Pollution and Secondhand Smoke:</strong> Minimizing exposure to pollutants protects brain health.</li>
<li><strong>Prevent Head Injuries:</strong> Safety measures can reduce the risk of head trauma and dementia.</li>
<li><strong>Limit Alcohol Use:</strong> Moderate alcohol intake is key to maintaining brain health.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href=”#1″>Continue reading about preventing dementia through lifestyle changes and interventions</a>.</p>
