Enhancing Dementia Prevention: Discovery of Three Modifiable Risk Factors
A groundbreaking report by The Lancet Commission has identified three new modifiable risk factors for dementia: excessive alcohol consumption, head injury or traumatic brain injury (TBI), and air pollution. By adopting specific lifestyle changes and environmental adjustments, individuals can potentially lower their risk of developing dementia related to these factors.
**Reducing Alcohol Consumption**
Limiting alcohol intake is crucial, as excessive alcohol use is a significant risk factor for dementia. Reducing consumption can help protect brain health. A recent study of older adults found that 56.6% of participants with an alcohol use disorder had an earlier onset of dementias [1][2].
**Preventing Head Injuries**
Wearing protective gear during sports or activities that could lead to head trauma is essential. Ensuring a safe environment at home and in public places can also reduce the risk of accidental head injuries. Particularly at risk are military veterans, who often face occupational TBIs [2].
**Mitigating Air Pollution**
Living in areas with lower levels of air pollution can help reduce dementia risk. If possible, moving away from heavily polluted areas or using air purifiers indoors can be beneficial. Supporting policies that reduce air pollution can be a long-term strategy [2].
**General Health Strategies**
Regular exercise, mental stimulation, social engagement, managing chronic conditions, and adopting a heart-healthy diet are all proven to reduce dementia risk. Engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week can enhance cardiovascular health, while mentally stimulating activities like reading, puzzles, and learning new skills maintain cognitive health [1][2][3][4].
Maintaining strong social connections and participating in social activities support cognitive resilience, while successfully managing conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol reduce dementia risk [1][2]. A heart-healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, emphasizing plant-based foods and healthy fats, is also beneficial [2][4].
**Additional Factors**
Other known risk factors for dementia include high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, and hearing loss. Smoking increases aerosol particles and has vascular and toxic effects, potentially increasing the risk of dementia [1].
Contributions to the risk of dementia begin early in life and continue throughout our lifespan. Programs that teach healthy relationship skills can help prevent domestic violence and child abuse, potentially reducing the risk of dementia due to head injury [1]. Statin use in older adults with concussion may reduce the risk of dementia by 13% [1].
Modifying these risk factors could prevent or delay up to 20 million dementia cases worldwide. Avoiding or discouraging harmful alcohol drinking habits, preventing head injuries, and mitigating exposure to air pollution can significantly contribute to this reduction [1].
[1] The Lancet Commission (2020) [2] Alzheimer's Research UK [3] Alzheimer's Association [4] American Heart Association
- The science of dementia prevention suggests that reducing alcohol consumption can help protect brain health and potentially lower the risk of developing dementia.
- Engaging in therapies and treatments such as meditation and cognitive training, known to improve mental health, may also help lower the risk of dementia.
- The impact of chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and high cholesterol on the risk of developing dementia is well-documented, making it crucial to manage these medical conditions.
- A heart-healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, is beneficial not just for cardiovascular health but also for reducing the risk of dementia and other chronic diseases.
- Climate change can affect air quality, potentially leading to increased air pollution, which is a new modifiable risk factor for dementia identified by science. Therefore, minimizing carbon footprint, promoting renewable energy, and supporting policies that reduce air pollution can collectively contribute to dementia prevention and the overall health and wellness of individuals.
