A recent report in The Lancet journal has identified two new modifiable risk factors for dementia: high cholesterol after 40 and untreated vision loss. According to researchers, these factors account for 49% of dementia cases worldwide. High cholesterol can lead to blood vessel hardening, affecting oxygen supply to the brain and causing neuron damage. Untreated vision loss also affects daily activities that boost brain health.
Researchers say lifestyle changes, such as exercise and a balanced diet, can lower risk. Having a good medical team and primary care doctor is crucial in identifying and managing risk factors like high cholesterol and blood pressure. Tests can detect early signs of neurodegeneration and genetic markers of the disease. By making healthy lifestyle changes, it’s never too late to improve brain health.
Additionally, studies have found that individuals with metabolic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol tend to progress more slowly with dementia if they don’t have these risk factors. Our brains are highly malleable, so making healthy lifestyle changes can lead to improved brain health.
Source: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/dementia-research-new-risk-factors-goog_l_69209634e4b06c13afa4a363