Dementia: A Growing Concern, Even Among the Young

Eugenio Rodolfo Sanabria Reporter

| 2025-01-15 17:29:14


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Early-Onset Dementia: A Growing Concern

London, UK – Dementia, a neurodegenerative disease once primarily associated with the elderly, is increasingly being diagnosed in younger individuals. A recent study published in the JAMA Neurology has shed light on the risk factors associated with early-onset dementia, defined as dementia occurring before the age of 65.

Researchers from the University of Exeter in the UK and Maastricht University in the Netherlands analyzed data from over 350,000 individuals under the age of 65 across the UK. They identified 15 key risk factors linked to early-onset dementia, many of which are modifiable through lifestyle changes.

Key risk factors include:

Social isolation
Low educational attainment
Low socioeconomic status
Carrying two copies of the APOE ε4 gene
Vitamin D deficiency
Hearing impairment
Alcohol use disorder
Alcohol abstinence
Depression
High C-reactive protein levels
Weak grip strength
Orthostatic hypotension
Stroke
Diabetes
Heart disease

While genetic factors like carrying two copies of the APOE ε4 gene are uncontrollable, many other risk factors can be managed through lifestyle changes. For example, maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and prioritizing mental health can significantly reduce the risk of developing early-onset dementia.

"Not only physical factors but also mental health plays an important role," said Sebastian Kohler, a neuroepidemiologist at Maastricht University and one of the study authors. "This includes avoiding chronic stress, isolation, and depression."

Preventive measures suggested by experts include:

Regular physical activity: Engaging in heart-pumping exercises can stimulate the growth of new neurons and blood vessels, improving cognitive function.
Healthy diet: A Mediterranean-style diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, can provide essential nutrients for brain health.
Mental stimulation: Engaging in activities that challenge the mind, such as learning a new language or playing a musical instrument, can help maintain cognitive function.
Social connection: Maintaining strong social ties can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of loneliness.
The findings of this study align with those of the Lancet Commission on Dementia, which identified 14 modifiable risk factors for dementia. Together, these studies emphasize the importance of a healthy lifestyle in preventing this debilitating disease.

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