Neurons: seven ways that may help lower dementia risk

The article summarises seven lifestyle factors linked to dementia risk, citing studies that found regular exercise was associated with a 35% lower chance of developing dementia and that smoking, head injuries, air pollution, isolation and higher alcohol intake are each associated with higher risk.

An article outlines seven lifestyle factors linked to changes in dementia risk and summarises relevant studies and expert comments. It highlights a 2022 study of about half a million middle-aged Britons that found regular exercise was associated with a 35% lower chance of developing dementia over 11 years. Experts quoted describe biological mechanisms such as rises in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) after aerobic activity and note other factors linked to higher risk, including head injuries, air pollution, social isolation, smoking and heavier alcohol use. Key findings: - A 2022 study tracking around 500,000 middle-aged Britons for 11 years found regular exercise was associated with a 35% lower chance of developing dementia, according to the article. - A 2018 study cited reported that 30 minutes of activity that causes light breathlessness can raise blood levels of BDNF by about 30%; experts linked BDNF to support for hippocampal neurons. - The article reports that head injuries from falls can raise dementia risk two- to three-fold and that about 40% of people aged 60 who fall will suffer a head injury. - It notes air pollution (PM2.5) is associated with about a 10% higher dementia risk and that social isolation is linked to roughly a 60% greater likelihood of dementia, as reported by Alzheimer’s organisations. - The article cites sources saying smoking is associated with an approximately 30% higher dementia risk and that drinking more than 21 units a week was linked to higher dementia risk compared with the 14-unit guideline. Summary: The article brings together research and expert commentary connecting regular physical activity, protection from head injury, cleaner air exposure, social contact, not smoking, continued learning and moderated drinking with differences in dementia risk. Undetermined at this time.