Heart health 'could be biggest risk factor for future dementia rates'

In comparison to factors such as smoking and lower levels of education, the risk factors for dementia associated with heart health may have increased over time, suggests the study. The findings indicate that more action on cardiovascular health may prevent future cases of dementia.

Generally, the development of the condition involves a mix of genetic and environmental factors, such as high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, level of education, and smoking habits. The team discovered that obesity and diabetes rates, along with their contribution to dementia risk, have all seen an increase over time.

"Our results show that levels of education have increased over time in many higher income countries, meaning that this has become a less important dementia risk factor. Meanwhile, smoking levels have also declined in Europe and the USA as it has become less socially acceptable and more expensive." Funding for the analysis, released in The Lancet Public Health, was provided by the National Institute for Health and Care Research Three Schools' Dementia Research Programme.

Today, it's estimated that dementia impacts around 50 million individuals globally, with Alzheimer's Research UK projecting this number to triple to approximately 152 million people by 2050. "Evidence tells us that what's good for our hearts is good for our brains, and this new research underlines the importance of this message. So, things like eating a healthy balanced diet and staying physically active can all help people to reduce their risk of dementia."

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