The new 2020 commission outline on the strategies for reducing dementia mentions 12 risk factors that can be modified.
Dementia is a spectrum of conditions presenting with memory loss and cognitive impairment. Currently, 50 million people have dementia globally. This number is expected to increase to 152 million people by 2050.
The commission identified the factors that reduce dementia in 3 broad categories
- Increased brain cognitive reserve
- Reduced brain inflammation
- Reduced brain damage (vascular, neurotoxic, or oxidative stress)
The 12 risk factors that can be amended include
In less than 18 years of age
- Less education
Age 45 to 65 years
- Head injuries
- Excessive alcohol
- Hypertension
- Obesity
- Hearing loss
In older than 65 years
- Smoking
- Exposure to air pollution
- Depression
- Physical inactivity
- Social isolation
- Diabetes
In summary, early education creates a better memory brain reserve that reduces dementia in later life. Reducing the impact of brain damage and inflammation by mitigating the 12 risk factors mentioned above will also reduce the onset of dementia.
Summarized by Dr. Ngozi Onuoha
References
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(17)31363-6/fulltext