2023-08-27 12:34:00
Status: 08/27/2023, 12:34 p.m
By: Judith Brown
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Scientists Identify New Risk Factors for Dementia
As the number of people developing dementia continues to rise, scientists are uncovering new risk factors associated with the neurological disease. Dementia, once it develops, cannot be reversed or cured, but researchers believe that delaying the onset of symptoms is possible. By identifying and understanding these risk factors, individuals can take proactive measures to prevent dementia, starting at a young age and adopting a healthy lifestyle.
Known and Influential Risk Factors
Old age, gender (with women being more susceptible), and genetic factors are well-known risk factors for dementia that cannot be altered. However, dementia researcher Miia Kivipelto from the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm indicates that approximately 30 percent of the risk of Alzheimer’s can be attributed to seven modifiable risk factors. These factors include obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, lack of physical activity, smoking, depression, and low educational attainment.
Newly Discovered Risk Factors
In addition to the well-established factors, recent observational studies have revealed five new risk factors:
- Regular consumption of heavily sugared beverages: According to a study conducted by Columbia University, individuals consuming high amounts of sugar-sweetened beverages had a 50 percent increased rate of Alzheimer’s. However, this correlation is more likely to indicate an overall unhealthy lifestyle, which in turn can lead to diabetes and obesity, both of which are proven risk factors for dementia.
- Mental stress in middle age: Those experiencing chronic worries and anxiety due to family, work, or financial issues are more susceptible to developing dementia. This stress can be mitigated through regular exercise, which is known to protect against dementia.
- Brief REM sleep: Shortened Rapid Eye Movement (REM) or dream sleep phases can also elevate the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Adequate and quality sleep is essential in protecting against dementia.
- Life without a partner: Scientific findings indicate that elderly individuals living alone and experiencing loneliness have a higher risk of developing dementia. In contrast, couples tend to lead healthier lifestyles and maintain more social interactions, which are beneficial in preventing Alzheimer’s.
- Hemorrhages in small cerebral vessels (Small Vessel Disease): Lesions visible in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans can indicate an imminent risk of dementia in hypertensive patients. Those with hypertensive conditions and increasing lesions in the brain’s ventricles have over a sixfold increased risk of cognitive impairment.
Understanding Alzheimer’s: Warning Signs
While the focus is on identifying and managing risk factors for dementia, it is important to recognize the warning signs of Alzheimer’s. Here are ten common signs:
- Memory loss affecting daily life
- Difficulty planning or solving problems
- Struggling with familiar tasks
- Confusion with time or place
- Trouble understanding visual information
- New problems with words, speaking, or writing
- Misplacing items and being unable to retrace steps
- Decreased or poor judgment
- Withdrawal from work or social activities
- Mood and personality changes
Please note: This article provides general information about health topics and is not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment, or medication. Consultation with a healthcare professional is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate medical advice.
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