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The human brain, a marvel of complexity weighing just three pounds, is facing unprecedented challenges as populations age. With the rise in life expectancy, brain diseases like dementia are becoming increasingly prevalent. However, experts say that maintaining optimal brain health is achievable through proactive lifestyle changes.
The American Heart Association (AHA) defines optimal brain health as the functional ability to perform diverse tasks, including thinking, moving, and feeling. As we age, cognitive functions naturally decline, but modifiable risk factors like unhealthy diets and sedentary lifestyles, often established in childhood, accelerate this process.
“We now know that many of the same health risk factors that cause heart disease and stroke also contribute to a decline in overall brain health,” explains Mitchell S. V. Elkind, M.D., M.S., FAHA, a neurologist and the AHA’s chief clinical science officer. “Just like with heart disease and stroke, most brain disease is preventable.”
However, the confluence of an aging population and rising rates of high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes is projected to trigger a surge in brain diseases.
Concerning Statistics
The 2025 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics report reveals alarming trends:
- Alzheimer’s disease is the seventh leading cause of death in the U.S. and the leading cause of death among neurological disorders.
- In 2022, 66.7% of U.S. dementia deaths were among females.
- Over 6.9 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s disease, with projections indicating a doubling to 13.9 million by 2060.
- Globally, nearly 57 million people had dementia in 2021, a 45% increase since 2010.
- Global dementia deaths have increased by nearly 195% since 1990, outpacing the 57% increase in cardiovascular deaths.
- U.S. health care spending on dementia more than doubled from $38.6 billion in 1996 to $79.2 billion in 2016.
“The burden of brain disorders is high. Dementia as a cause of death is growing faster than any other disease, including heart disease,” Elkind states.
The Life’s Essential 8 for Brain Health
The AHA emphasizes that the Life’s Essential 8, designed for cardiovascular health, also benefits the brain. These include:
- Health Behaviors: Eat Better, Be More Active, Quit Tobacco, Get Healthy Sleep.
- Health Factors: Manage Weight, Control Cholesterol, Manage Blood Sugar, Manage1 Blood Pressure.
“The American Heart Association is committed to advancing brain science through innovative research,” Elkind says. The association is also focused on promoting a positive view of brain health, encompassing creativity, adaptability, resilience, and empathy.
“When people are asked what health conditions they fear the most with aging, dementia tops the list,” Elkind notes. “It’s critical that as a society and as individuals we understand and make the changes needed to improve health outcomes from brain disease and, more importantly, prevent them to begin with.”
Disclaimer: This news article is based on information provided by the American Heart Association. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, this article should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance on brain health and related concerns. The provided statistics and projections are based on current data and may be subject to change.
