A worrying study predicts a doubling of dementia cases by 2060 in the United States. What are the risk factors and how to protect your brain? The answers in this article…
Forgetting is a common phenomenon that increases with age, which can progress to more severe cognitive disorders such as dementia. Although these changes are often linked to normal aging, a new study by American researchers is sounding the alarm. According to their projections, the number of new cases of dementia could double by 2060 in the United States, from 514,000 to 1 million per year.
A large-scale study on dementia risk
To reach these worrying conclusions, scientists analyzed data from more than 15,000 participants aged 55 on average, followed for 23 years. They found that the risk of developing dementia increased significantly after age 75, reaching 42% at age 95. Women and people of African-American origin seemed more affected, as did carriers of a variant of the APOE4 gene associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
According to researchers, this expected increase in cases of dementia can be explained in part by the aging of the population, particularly baby boomers who are reaching advanced ages. Socioeconomic disparities could also play a role, with inadequate education and nutrition early in life increasing risks later.
A close link between heart and brain
Beyond age, certain cardiovascular diseases such as atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease or heart failure are associated with an increased risk of dementia. Factors that aggravate the heart, such as high cholesterol, hypertension, obesity and diabetes, therefore also impact the brain. Chronic inflammation would be another point in common between cardiac and neurological pathologies.
Preventing dementia through healthy living
Faced with these alarming findings, experts emphasize the importance of prevention at all ages. Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish and good fats would reduce the risk of cognitive decline. This is the case for the Mediterranean, DASH and MIND diets.
-It is estimated that by following an anti-inflammatory diet, people who already have diabetes, heart disease or have had a stroke could reduce their risk of dementia by a third.
Explains one of the authors of the study
Beyond the plate, it is recommended to:
- Practice regular physical activity
- Maintain a fulfilling social and emotional life
- Stimulate your brain through activities (reading, games, etc.)
- Sleep well and manage stress
- Avoid tobacco, alcohol and ultra-processed foods
By adopting these healthy habits as early as possible, we put all the chances on our side to age in good cognitive health. The projections in this study, although alarming, have the merit of drawing attention to a major public health issue. It’s up to us to seize the opportunities now to take care of our brain.
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