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A recent study published in the Journal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry has revealed a significant link between low levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and a reduced risk of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease-related dementia.
Researchers analyzed data from over half a million adult outpatients across 11 university hospitals, focusing on individuals with varying LDL-C levels. They found that those with LDL-C levels below 1.8 mmol/L (approximately 70 mg/dL) exhibited a 26% reduction in the risk of all-cause dementia and a 28% reduction in Alzheimer’s disease-related dementia compared to those with levels above 3.4 mmol/L (approximately 130 mg/dL).
Interestingly, the protective effect plateaued at very low LDL-C levels. When levels dropped below 1.4 mmol/L (approximately 55 mg/dL), the risk reduction diminished to 18%. Furthermore, no significant risk reduction was observed when LDL-C levels fell below 0.8 mmol/L (approximately 30 mg/dL).
The study also highlighted the potential benefits of statin use in individuals with low LDL-C. Statin therapy was associated with an additional 13% reduction in all-cause dementia risk and a 12% decrease in Alzheimer’s disease-related dementia risk among those with LDL-C levels below 1.8 mmol/L.
“These findings underscore the crucial role of managing LDL-C in lowering dementia risk,” the authors concluded.
While the cardiovascular benefits of low LDL-C are well-established, the relationship with dementia has been less clear. This study provides valuable insights, suggesting a potential target range for LDL-C to optimize cognitive health.
Important Disclaimer:
This news article is based on an observational study, and therefore, it cannot establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between low LDL-C levels and reduced dementia risk. The study also acknowledges limitations, including potential confounding factors, possible underreporting of dementia cases, and the focus on baseline LDL-C levels. Readers should consult with healthcare professionals for personalized medical advice and should not alter their medication or treatment plans based solely on this information. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and establish definitive guidelines.(More information: Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and risk of incident dementia: a distributed network analysis using common data models, Journal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry (2025). DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2024-334708)
