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London, June 28, 2024 — A groundbreaking study from University College London (UCL) reveals that cardiovascular health, particularly hypertension, may play a more significant role in future dementia cases than previously understood, surpassing even smoking.
Published in The Lancet Public Health, the research highlights a shift in the risk factors associated with dementia over time. The study analyzed 27 papers, encompassing global data on individuals with dementia collected between 1947 and 2015, with the most recent paper published in 2020. The findings indicate that while some traditional risk factors like smoking and lower education levels have declined, the prevalence of conditions such as high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes has increased, subsequently elevating their contribution to dementia risk.
Key Findings:
- Hypertension as a Major Risk Factor: Hypertension, or high blood pressure, has emerged as the most significant risk factor for dementia in the majority of the studies analyzed. This marks a notable shift from earlier findings where factors like smoking and low education were more prominent.
- Impact of Lifestyle and Education: The study observed a decline in smoking rates and an increase in education levels, particularly in higher-income countries. Lead author Dr. Naaheed Mukadam from UCL Psychiatry noted, “Education levels have increased over time in many higher-income countries, meaning that this has become a less important dementia risk factor. Levels of smoking have also declined in Europe and the US as it has become less socially acceptable and more expensive.”
- Rising Obesity and Diabetes Rates: Contrary to the declining trends in smoking and lower education, rates of obesity and diabetes have risen significantly. These conditions, closely linked to lifestyle and diet, now contribute more to the overall dementia risk.
Implications for Public Health: The findings underscore the critical need for targeted public health initiatives focusing on cardiovascular health. “Cardiovascular risk factors may have contributed more to dementia risk over time, so these deserve more targeted action for future dementia prevention efforts,” said Dr. Mukadam.
Future Directions: Given the evolving nature of dementia risk factors, the study calls for continuous monitoring and adjustment of public health strategies. By prioritizing cardiovascular health and addressing the rising incidence of obesity and diabetes, there is potential to mitigate future dementia cases.
In conclusion, this comprehensive study from UCL highlights the shifting landscape of dementia risk factors, with a significant emphasis on hypertension and other cardiovascular issues. As public health strategies evolve, a focus on cardiovascular health could play a pivotal role in reducing the global burden of dementia.
