The World Health Organization (WHO) has published an important update to its guidelines aimed at helping people reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. This new edition revises the original report from 2019 to include the most recent scientific findings regarding dementia prevention.
In this updated guideline, the WHO has introduced seven new factors that can increase the risk of developing dementia. These factors are:
1. Stroke
2. Traumatic brain injury
3. Vision problems
4. Sleep disorders
5. HIV
6. Air pollution
7. Menopausal hormone therapy
These additions join an earlier list of 12 established risk factors, which includes:
1. Cognitive activity
2. Social activity
3. Lack of physical exercise
4. Harmful alcohol use
5. Tobacco use
6. Poor diet/nutrition
7. Obesity
8. Diabetes
9. High blood pressure
10. Abnormal lipid levels in the blood
11. Hearing loss
12. Depression
Dr. Daniel Amen, a physician and founder of Amen Clinics in California, has shared his views on reducing Alzheimer’s risk through lifestyle changes. He emphasizes the importance of factors such as blood flow, retirement, inflammation, genetics, head trauma, toxins, mental health, immune function, hormonal balances, and sleep. His approach aligns closely with the WHO’s updated recommendations.
Focusing specifically on menopausal hormone therapy, the WHO does not advocate for its use in women 65 and older to prevent dementia. For younger women, the evidence is not strong enough to determine its effects on dementia risk. Dr. Amen agrees, noting that hormonal changes during menopause can influence mood and memory, but the connection to dementia is still unclear.
Stroke is another significant risk factor, as it occurs when blood flow to the brain is obstructed. Such cardiovascular conditions can also harm brain health and raise dementia risk. Dr. Amen highlights that a variety of heart issues, as well as erectile dysfunction, are correlated with cognitive decline, particularly in older individuals.
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) has also garnered attention in the updated guidelines. Dr. Amen believes more emphasis should have been placed on TBI as a risk factor for dementia, as even mild head injuries can lead to long-term mental health issues.
Vision impairment is another area of concern, with research suggesting that problems with sight may place extra strain on the brain. Meanwhile, sleep disorders can disrupt the brain’s waste-clearing processes, contributing further to dementia risk.
Finally, the WHO emphasizes the dangers of air pollution, suggesting that long-term exposure to polluted air could be linked to cognitive decline, despite the evidence being classified as low certainty.
As dementia becomes more common with age, these guidelines serve as a reminder that lifestyle choices matter. Dr. Amen suggests that we should all be thinking about ways to protect our brain health throughout our lives by staying socially active and continuously learning.
By paying attention to our habits and making healthier choices, we can significantly improve our quality of life and reduce the risk of dementia.
