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Neurological diseases such as dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, are on the rise. There are many factors contributing to this, and experts emphasize that a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of memory loss and cognitive decline.
Continued heavy drinking was associated with an 8% increased risk of dementia.
The researchers studied the brains of about 40,000 people over the age of 45. They were most interested in how lifestyle and genetic factors affect specific areas of the brain that are particularly vulnerable to the effects of aging and Alzheimer’s disease. Lifestyle is considered a modifiable risk factor, while genetic factors are considered unmodifiable (although sometimes lifestyle habits can affect whether a gene is turned on).
Generally, research results are published in journals Nature Communicationssuggesting that three factors in particular lead to faster and earlier degeneration of the above-mentioned brain regions.
60% increased risk
Past studies have shown that type 2 diabetes increases the risk of dementia by 60%. Another factor is air pollution from traffic. Long-term daily exposure to air pollution increases the risk of dementia. Researchers have also found alcohol to be the culprit: drinking, especially in excess, can have harmful effects on the brain.
Older adults who maintain an active lifestyle have better cognitive outcomes and a lower risk of dementia. Photograph: Thomas Northcutt/Getty Images
The magazine published a 2023 South Korea survey JAMA Open NetworkA study involving more than 3 million people found that continued heavy drinking increased the risk of dementia by 8%. In contrast, limiting alcohol consumption reduced the risk by 8%.
They target weaknesses
Why are the above factors so dangerous to brain health? Because they target the brain’s weak spots, say the researchers. They recommend a healthy lifestyle and exercise. Older adults who maintain an active lifestyle have better cognitive outcomes and a lower risk of dementia than those who are less active. Exercise helps reduce the risk of diabetes and improves cardiovascular function. We now know very well that what’s good for the heart is also good for the brain.
Age is the biggest risk factor for developing this disease.
Dementia is an incurable disease characterized by a progressive loss of cognitive function and an inability to live independently. As life expectancy increases, the number of people with dementia is increasing, and age is the biggest risk factor for developing the disease. This is why the World Health Organization has declared dementia a public health priority for the 21st century.
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