Dementia: 12 changeable lifestyle factors that may lower your risk of developing the disease

Researchers say there are 12 changeable lifestyle factors that may lower your risk of developing dementia.

Research shows that in almost half of the cases in which this condition is found, there is a preventable reason. However, research shows that there are factors that increase the risk. This could significantly reduce tolls by as much as 40%. Drinking more than 10 pints or two bottles of wine a week may affect your chances of Alzheimer’s disease. Accidents, blows to the head from playing sports, and living on busy roads are also cited.

These causes are in addition to nine other causes already identified. And this “dirty dozen” is the key to fighting the disease, scientists say.

As reported by Bristol Live, Professor Gil Livingstone from University College London said: “Our report shows that preventing and slowing a significant proportion of dementia is within the power of policy makers and individuals. It shows that.” She added that she has the opportunity to make an impact “at each stage of a person’s life,” from her childhood to her old age.

The three latest risk factors account for 6% of cases worldwide, of which 3% are thought to be due to head injuries in people in their 30s to 50s. One in 50 deaths is due to exposure to air pollution in later life, and 1% is due to consuming more than 21 units of alcohol per week in midlife.

Midlife hearing loss (8%) was followed by leaving school early (7%) and smoking (5%). This was followed by loneliness and depression (both at 4%), high blood pressure and lack of exercise (both at 2%), and obesity and diabetes (both at 1%). Recommendations included providing primary and secondary education to all children. The authors also called for limiting alcohol intake to less than 21 units per week and for head injury prevention campaigns, especially for people in high-risk occupations and transport.

He called for the use of hearing aids, protection from high noise levels and urgent improvements in air quality. Systolic blood pressure, the highest measured value, should be maintained below 130 mm Hg after age 40. Smoking, second-hand smoke, obesity, and type 2 diabetes should be avoided, and people should try to stay active at all ages.

It affects individuals, their families and economies, with global costs estimated at around US$1 trillion (£770 billion) a year. However, in some countries, the proportion of cases is decreasing, probably due to improvements in education, nutrition, medical care, and lifestyle changes.

Professor Livingstone added: “As a society, we need to think beyond promoting health to prevent dementia and start tackling inequalities to improve the conditions in which people live. “can reduce risks by creating an active and healthy environment in the community where physical activity takes place.” Activity is the norm, better food is provided for everyone, and exposure to excess alcohol is minimized. ”

Fiona Carragher, head of research at the Alzheimer’s Society, said: “While news that 40% of dementia cases could theoretically be prevented is certainly welcome, thousands of people are still struggling with their memory, relationships and identity. “We’re going to need more power to prevent it from being taken away.” More than just this knowledge.

“While we don’t have all the answers yet, we can take action now to address risk factors that we can control, such as heavy drinking, obesity, and high blood pressure. “Public health policies are needed to address other factors such as air pollution and early childhood education inequalities.”