According to the study published in the journal The Lancet Public Health, high blood pressure, more commonly known as high blood pressure, may be the most important risk factor for developing dementia. The chronic condition, which is estimated to affect almost a third of adults in the UK, puts strain on the arteries and heart, potentially leading to serious complications, explains
The Sun. UCL researchers analyzed data on dementia from studies across the world, collected between 1947 and 2015. They then calculated the change in the main risk factors for dementia over time.
Their analysis reveals an interesting trend: while obesity and diabetes are on the rise and contribute more to the risk of dementia, other factors such as low education and smoking are in sharp decline, leading to a reduction in their impact on the onset of the disease. However, high blood pressure emerges as the predominant risk factor in the majority of studies reviewed..
Faced with dementia, prevention is the best weapon
Although high blood pressure is an important risk factor, researchers highlight improvements in its managementBetter blood pressure management could partly explain this trend.
“Cardiovascular risk factors may have contributed more to dementia risk over time“, explains Dr Naaheed Mukadam, lead author of the study and researcher in the Division of Psychiatry at UCL.This means they deserve more targeted action in future dementia prevention efforts.“
Reducing your risk of dementia by taking care of your heart
The UCL study highlights the importance of good cardiovascular health for long-term cognitive health.”What we do know is that what’s good for the heart is good for the brain“, says Dr Isolde Radford, head of policy at Alzheimer’s Research UK. “Eating healthily, exercising regularly, and limiting your alcohol and salt intake are all ways to reduce your risk of dementia.“
Although these tips seem simple, their application can be more complicated. Access to a healthy diet and the opportunity to engage in regular physical activity may vary by income and geographic location. The authors of the study emphasize the role of governments in promoting healthy lifestyles accessible to all.
