Study reveals major risk factors for dementia

 Although dementia is much more common in older adults, hundreds of thousands of people are diagnosed with early-onset dementia (EOD) every year, and a comprehensive study finally sheds light on why this is the case. Most of the previous research in this area has looked at genetics passed down through generations. However, in this case, the team was able to identify 15 different lifestyle and health factors that are associated with EOD risk. So what are the big risk factors for dementia?

The major risk factors for dementia

“This is the largest and most robust study of its kind ever undertaken,” said epidemiologist David Llewellyn of the University of Exeter in the UK when the results were published in December 2023.

“Excitingly, for the first time, it reveals that we may be able to take steps to reduce the risk of this debilitating condition. All by targeting a range of different factors.”

The research team analysed data collected from 356,052 people under the age of 65 in the UK.Low socioeconomic status, social isolation, hearing impairment, stroke, diabetes, heart disease, and depression were associated with an increased risk of JAD.

Vitamin D deficiency and high levels of C-reactive protein (produced by the liver in response to inflammation) also signified a higher risk. As did having two of the ApoE4 ε4 gene variants (a genetic scenario already associated with Alzheimer's disease).

Researchers have described the link between alcohol and dementia as “complex”

While alcohol abuse led to an increased risk, moderate to heavy drinking was correlated with a reduced risk. This may be because people in this second group are generally healthier. Keep in mind that people who abstain from alcohol often do so for medical reasons.

Higher levels of formal education and lower physical frailty (measured by greater handgrip strength) were also associated with lower risk.

“We already knew from research on people who develop dementia later in life that there are a number of modifiable risk factors,” said neuroepidemiologist Sebastian Köhler of Maastricht University in the Netherlands.

“In addition to physical factors, mental health also plays an important role, including avoiding chronic stress, loneliness and depression.”

While the findings do not prove that dementia is caused by these factors, they do help to paint a more detailed picture. As is always the case with this type of research, knowing more about the causes can help develop better treatments and preventative measures.

However, many of these factors are modifiable, so this offers more hope to those working to find ways to overcome dementia rather than just manage it.

Ultimately, dementia may be something you can reduce your risk of by living a healthier life.