2023-12-27 18:18:00
Almost 370,000 people under the age of 65 are diagnosed with symptoms of dementia every year. While it has already been proven that lifestyle can have an influence on the onset of the disease, especially in older people, such a connection has so far been largely unexplored in younger people.
A new study from the University of Exeter and Maastricht University evaluated data from 350,000 people under 65 in Great Britain. The aim of the study was to find out how genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors can influence the predisposition to early dementia. The study was published in the journal „JAMA Neurology“ published.
15 factors influence early dementia
In total, the researchers were able to identify 15 factors that can influence early dementia – both positive and negative. “Although further investigation of these factors is needed to identify underlying mechanisms, taking these factors into account may reduce the risk of early dementia,” the researchers said.
The results show that, in addition to a lower level of education, health factors such as vitamin D deficiency, hearing loss or depression can lead to an increased risk of early dementia. Alcoholism and social isolation are also crucial, according to the study.
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According to the researchers, the highest risk comes from low blood pressure when standing, orthostatic hypertension. This is followed by depression, alcoholism and previous strokes. Only then does the risk arise, which comes from the genetic predisposition of the respective person.
The negative factors are (descending):
- Orthostatic Hypertension
- depressions
- alcoholism
- Strokes
- Genetic predisposition
- Social disadvantage
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Vitamin D Deficiency
- Hearing damage
- High levels of C-reactive protein
- Social isolation
Of the 15 factors examined, three are also said to reduce the risk of early dementia. Moderate alcohol consumption, education and greater hand grip strength would therefore ensure a reduced risk.
Mental health is also crucial
Janice Ranson, a researcher from the University of Exeter, said the study was “a breakthrough in recognizing that the risk of early dementia can be reduced.” Other researchers said it would also allow for better prevention at an individual and societal level level is possible.
“In addition to physical factors, mental health also plays a crucial role, as does avoiding chronic stress, loneliness and depression. It was surprising to me that this also applies to early dementia and so risks for such early dementia could also be reduced,” explained Sebastian Köhler, Professor of Neuroepidemiology at Maastricht University.
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