A recent report by the Lancet Commission has identified loss of vision and high levels of "bad" cholesterol as new risk factors for dementia.
The study highlights that addressing these and other risk factors from childhood and monitoring them throughout life could help prevent or delay the onset of dementia, even in those with a high genetic risk for the condition. The 2024 Lancet Commission on dementia, led by researchers from University College London, UK, found that approximately nine percent of global dementia cases can be attributed to these newly identified risk factors.
Specifically, high "bad" cholesterol starting at age 40 accounts for seven percent of cases, while untreated vision loss in later life contributes to two percent. Other notable risk factors include lower levels of education during early life and social isolation in later life, each contributing to five percent of global dementia cases.
Dementia affects thinking, memory, and decision-making, impacting daily activities. Alzheimer’s disease is the most prevalent form of dementia. The 2020 Lancet Commission had previously identified 12 risk factors linked to 40 percent of global dementia cases, including lower education levels, air pollution, and health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and depression. The number of dementia cases worldwide is expected to nearly triple by 2050, rising from 57 million in 2019 to 153 million. In India alone, a study published in February estimated that approximately 34 million older adults aged 60 and above are living with mild cognitive impairment.
The authors of the report urge governments and individuals to take proactive measures throughout life to address these risks, emphasising that early intervention is crucial for reducing the impact of dementia.
