Ageing and genetics are well-established factors that contribute to the risk of developing dementia. However, experts have recently published a comprehensive list of 16 other ways that can significantly increase the likelihood of developing this memory-depleting condition. While habits such as obesity, smoking, and lack of exercise may seem obvious, there are other factors that may catch you off guard. Tooth loss, insufficient sleep, and excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods are among the surprising risks identified by Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI), a federation of 100 Alzheimer’s associations worldwide. This report from ADI sheds light on these modifiable risk factors and their impact on dementia risk.
Alzheimer’s disease, which involves the build-up of certain proteins in the brain that impede its function, accounts for about two-thirds of dementia cases. ADI emphasizes that addressing just 12 out of the 16 identified risk factors could prevent 55.6 million cases of dementia by 2050. However, the myriad of studies exploring potential ways to reduce dementia risk, ranging from eating blueberries to drinking champagne, tend to confuse people about the actual steps they can take to mitigate their risk. It’s important to note that dementia is not a standalone disease but rather a consequence of another condition. It is characterized by gradual memory loss and difficulties in daily activities, particularly prevalent among the elderly. The leading causes of dementia are Alzheimer’s and vascular problems, where strokes or multiple “mini-strokes” disrupt blood supply to the brain. While there is no cure for dementia, individuals can take action to reduce their risk.
ADI assembled a panel of renowned experts to compile the latest evidence on reducing dementia risk. They identified a total of 16 risk factors within people’s control, although some may be easier to address than others. The report aligns with a leading 2020 study published in The Lancet, which also identified a dozen of these risk factors. Some factors, such as high blood pressure, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, lack of exercise, smoking, exposure to air pollution, and diabetes, directly impact physical health and influence cardiovascular health, stroke risk, and overall brain health. Furthermore, head injuries from activities like rugby or boxing appear to increase dementia risk by affecting brain health. Other factors, such as hearing loss, depression, limited education, and social isolation, impact brain health differently and are associated with an increased risk of dementia.
In addition to these 12 factors, ADI researchers identified four other risks. A poor diet, particularly one rich in ultra-processed foods, was identified as a potential contributor to dementia risk. These foods, containing emulsifiers, preservatives, and artificial additives, have recently come under scrutiny due to their potential negative impact on cardiovascular health. While the exact mechanism through which ultra-processed foods increase dementia risk remains unknown, the report suggests that the link is established through associations with known risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
Untreated sight loss was another factor linked to dementia risk. The exact mechanism behind this connection is unclear, but theories include compensatory brain overactivity due to vision loss, lower opportunities for brain stimulation, and an increased risk of social isolation and poor psychological health. Tooth loss, according to ADI’s report, was associated with a 1.1% increase in dementia risk per lost tooth. Losing 20 teeth raised the risk by 31%. However, treating tooth loss with dentures seemed to mitigate this risk, although the exact influence of tooth loss on dementia risk remains uncertain. Poor oral hygiene and an associated increase in gum disease may lead to inflammation throughout the body, which can harm the brain.
The final factor identified by ADI is getting a good night’s sleep. While studies on this topic yield mixed results, the report suggests that poor sleep patterns in middle age may contribute to a higher risk of dementia later in life. For example, an 8-year study of 180,000 US Army veterans found that those with insomnia had a 26% chance of developing Alzheimer’s. The lack of sleep may inhibit the brain’s ability to flush out proteins associated with Alzheimer’s.
Although the report identifies 16 modifiable risk factors for dementia, ADI acknowledges that there are “many other” habits identified in other studies that were not included. ADI hopes that this report will empower individuals to make informed lifestyle choices that reduce dementia risk. ADI Chief Executive Paola Barbarino emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach, with individuals making personal choices such as quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption, while also requiring government action to address air quality and ensure access to education. While breakthrough drugs offer hope, prevention through risk reduction is currently the best tool available.
Dame Louise Robinson, a professor at Newcastle University and co-chair of ADI’s medical and scientific advisory panel, highlights the growing body of research that indicates dementia can be delayed or prevented through lifestyle choices such as exercise, diet, and social connections. ADI’s report also includes firsthand accounts from individuals currently living with dementia, emphasizing the importance of reducing risk even after diagnosis.
It is estimated that around 900,000 people in the UK and 7 million people in the US are living with dementia. As people live longer, dementia poses an increasing burden on healthcare systems, particularly in the UK. Treating and caring for patients with Alzheimer’s and dementia costs the UK approximately £25 billion annually, primarily in social care spending.
What exactly is Alzheimer’s disease? It is a progressive and degenerative brain disease caused by the accumulation of abnormal proteins that lead to the death of nerve cells. This disrupts the brain’s communication pathways and causes it to shrink. In the US, over 5 million people are affected by Alzheimer’s, making it the 6th leading cause of death. In the UK, the condition affects over 1 million people.
In conclusion, understanding the modifiable risk factors for dementia and taking action to address them is crucial in reducing the incidence of this condition. While aging and genetics cannot be changed, individuals can make lifestyle choices that have a significant impact on dementia risk. This report from ADI raises awareness about these risk factors and encourages individuals and policymakers to prioritize prevention and risk reduction, offering hope in the absence of a cure.
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