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January 29, 2025 — A new study published in Neurology suggests that fluctuations in cholesterol levels over time may be linked to an increased risk of developing dementia in older adults. The research, led by Dr. Zhen Zhou from Monash University in Melbourne, Australia, analyzed data from nearly 10,000 individuals, ages 74 on average, who were followed for an average of 5.5 years.
The study found that older adults whose cholesterol levels changed significantly over time were 60% more likely to develop dementia than those whose cholesterol remained stable, regardless of the cholesterol levels themselves. This link was observed even after accounting for other factors that could influence dementia risk, such as age, smoking, and high blood pressure.
Cholesterol levels were measured at the start of the study and again at three annual visits. Participants were categorized into four groups based on the extent of their cholesterol changes. Those in the group with the most significant fluctuations in cholesterol experienced an average difference of 91 mg/dL between consecutive measurements, while the group with the least change saw a difference of only 22 mg/dL. Of the participants in the highest-change group, 147 out of 2,408 developed dementia, compared to 98 out of 2,437 in the group with the smallest fluctuations.
The study revealed a notable association between fluctuating levels of LDL cholesterol, often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, and the risk of dementia and cognitive decline. However, no such link was found with HDL (“good” cholesterol) or triglycerides.
These findings suggest that regular monitoring of cholesterol changes, rather than just focusing on one-time cholesterol levels, could help identify older adults at greater risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Potential interventions might include lifestyle changes or ensuring proper use of cholesterol-lowering medications like statins.
However, the study is not without its limitations. The researchers were unable to track changes in statin dosage or identify instances where individuals did not follow their prescribed medication regimen, which could have influenced the cholesterol fluctuations observed in the study.
Disclaimer: While the study establishes an association between fluctuating cholesterol levels and dementia risk, it does not prove that these fluctuations directly cause dementia. Further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms and potential interventions.
For more information, see the full study in Neurology (2025).
