Humans’ Brains are Growing in Volume and Surface Area – Implications for Dementia
New research from UC Davis Health reveals that contrary to popular belief, human brains are not getting smaller, but are in fact, growing bigger. The study compared MRI scans of individuals born in the 1930s to those born in the 1970s and found that there has been an increase in both brain volume and surface area in the latter group.
This finding is significant as it challenges the notion that humans are becoming intellectually inferior over time. While theories of declining intelligence have permeated discussions, this study suggests that our brains are actually evolving and expanding. But what does this mean for our future? And how does it correlate with the risk of dementia?
The research, which was conducted as part of the Framingham Heart Study, a long-term health tracking study spanning 75 years, analyzed brain size in 3,226 participants between 1999 and 2019. The results showed a 6.6% increase in brain volume and a 15% increase in brain surface area among individuals born in the 1970s compared to their counterparts born in the 1930s.
So, what factors contribute to this growth in brain size? The study points to better nutrition during critical periods of development such as pregnancy and childhood. Improved availability and quality of food have played a significant role in enhancing brain development, resulting in larger brain structures.
Interestingly, the researchers also found a potential association between larger brain size and a reduced risk of dementia. “Larger brain structures like those observed in our study may reflect improved brain development and improved brain health,” says lead author Dr. Charles DeCarli. A larger brain structure provides a greater reserve that can buffer the effects of age-related brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
However, it is important to note that the participants in the study were predominantly non-Hispanic white individuals who were well-educated and healthy. The study authors caution that social-cultural and health disparities, which are more prevalent among non-white individuals in the US, may have an adverse impact on brain health.
In a fascinating parallel to this research, an archive of ancient human brains has been discovered, offering insights into the prevalence of brain diseases throughout history. Scientists have cataloged over 4,000 such brains, some dating back 12,000 years. This resource aims to shed light on which brain diseases have been present throughout human existence and potentially discover factors that have contributed to their preservation or decay.
As we reflect on these findings, it is crucial to consider their implications for our future. The growth and development of the human brain have resulted from improvements in nutrition and overall well-being. Therefore, in order to continue this positive trend, it is imperative that we prioritize access to proper nutrition and healthcare for all individuals.
Furthermore, with the prevalence of brain diseases such as dementia on the rise, understanding the relationship between brain size and disease risk becomes essential. While a larger brain structure may offer some level of protection, it is crucial to address the underlying causes and risk factors associated with dementia.
Looking ahead, it is conceivable that ongoing advancements in medical technology and research will uncover further insights into the human brain. By continuing to explore the link between brain size, cognitive function, and overall health, we may unlock new strategies for preventing and treating neurological disorders.
In conclusion, the notion that humans are becoming dumber is debunked by the UC Davis Health study, which demonstrates that our brains are actually growing bigger. This finding not only challenges prevailing theories but also holds implications for the risk of dementia. By recognizing the factors contributing to this brain growth and further investigating the impact of brain size on disease susceptibility, we can work towards better brain health for all. As we continue to unravel the mysteries of the human brain, we pave the way for a brighter and more intellectually rich future.
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