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New Delhi, Mar 5: A recent study has suggested that prolonged use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may contribute to a lower risk of developing dementia, a condition impacting over 55 million people globally. The research, led by M. Arfan Ikram from Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam in the Netherlands, reinforces the hypothesis that inflammation plays a significant role in dementia progression. Given NSAIDs’ well-known anti-inflammatory properties, they may provide protective effects against cognitive decline.
The study analyzed data from 11,745 adults over an average follow-up period of 14.5 years. Among them, 9,520 had used NSAIDs at some point, while 2,091 developed dementia. The findings revealed that long-term NSAID use was associated with a 12% lower risk of dementia. However, short-term and intermediate-term usage did not yield notable benefits, and higher cumulative NSAID doses did not result in additional risk reduction. These insights, published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, indicate that consistent and prolonged NSAID use—not just higher doses—could play a role in protecting brain health.
Further research published in Alzheimer’s and Dementia: Translational Research & Clinical Interventions examined health records from over 130 million individuals and reinforced these findings. It highlighted that antibiotics, antivirals, vaccinations, and anti-inflammatory drugs were all linked to a reduced dementia risk. This supports the growing theory that common dementias may be influenced by bacterial or viral infections.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 10 million new dementia cases are diagnosed annually, making it the seventh leading cause of death worldwide. Alzheimer’s disease, the most prevalent form of dementia, accounts for approximately 60-70% of cases.
While this study highlights the potential of NSAIDs in dementia prevention, researchers stress the necessity for further studies to validate these findings and explore other preventive strategies. Lead researcher Ikram emphasized that additional investigations are required to establish firm evidence and develop effective approaches to combat dementia.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Long-term NSAID use can have risks, including gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and kidney-related side effects. Individuals should consult healthcare professionals before making any decisions regarding medication use.
