The Lancet Commission Report on Dementia Prevention, Intervention, and Care: 14 Modifiable Risk Factors
Did you know, you can lower your risk of dementia?
Dementia is a leading cause of disability and dependency among older adults worldwide. The Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention, Intervention, and Care (2024) identified 14 modifiable risk factors. Let us have a look at these today as it highlights the importance of early intervention and lifestyle modifications to reduce dementia risk.
The 14 Modifiable Risk Factors
The Lancet Commission categorised the risk factors into early-life, mid-life, and late-life stages. Addressing these can significantly delay or prevent dementia onset.
Early-life (childhood and adolescence)
Risk Factor: low education
Potential Intervention: Improve access to education
Mid-life (adulthood, 45 - 65 years)
Risk Factor: hypertension, obesity, hearing loss, traumatic brain injury, alcohol misuse, smoking
Potential Intervention: blood pressure control, healthy diet, hearing aids, injury prevention, reducing alcohol and tobacco use
Late-life (older age, 65+ years)
Risk Factor: depression, social isolation, physical inactivity, diabetes, air pollution
Potential Intervention: mental health support, social engagement, regular exercise, blood sugar management, reducing pollution exposure
Key Findings and Recommendations
1. Early-Life Interventions
o Low education is linked to higher dementia risk. Policies ensuring access to quality education can enhance cognitive reserve.
2. Mid-Life Risk Management
o Hypertension and obesity increase vascular dementia risk. Regular health checks and lifestyle changes (e.g., Mediterranean diet) are beneficial.
o Hearing loss is a major yet underrecognised risk factor. Hearing aids may reduce cognitive decline by up to 8%.
3. Late-Life Protective Measures
o Social isolation and depression accelerate cognitive decline. Community programmes and mental health support can mitigate risks.
o Physical inactivity contributes to neurodegeneration. Regular aerobic exercise improves brain health.
Conclusion
The Lancet Commission underscores that 40% of dementia cases could be prevented or delayed by targeting modifiable risks. Public health strategies should promote education, healthy lifestyles, and social engagement across the lifespan. Policymakers and healthcare providers must prioritise dementia prevention through integrated interventions.
This Dementia Awareness Week, take a look at how you can reduce your risk and help educate others on these risk factors.
