Taking Charge of Your Brain Health: Lifestyle Factors and Dementia Risk – Part 1:
Hey everyone! Last week I saw a couple of headlines in the media saying how dementia has become the leading cause of death, even overtaking other big contenders, in the UK. My mother and my maternal Grandmother both lived with dementia and I find that pretty scary in terms of my future. I’ve watched them go through it and how it affects them and the people around them and wouldn't wish this dreadful condition on anyone. Much research is being done to find specific causes and a cure but as yet it’s causes are not completely understood. Dementia is generally believed to be a result of a combination of various factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental influences. Here are some key factors that researchers have identified as contributors to dementia: 1. Age: The primary risk factor for dementia is advancing age. Therefore the risk of developing dementia increases significantly as individuals get older. However, dementia is not a normal part of ageing, and not all older adults will develop the condition. Thankfully! 2. Genetics: Family history and genetics play a role in some forms of dementia. Certain gene mutations have been associated with an increased risk of developing specific types of dementia, such as early-onset familial Alzheimer's disease. However, it should be noted that just because there is a genetic disposition for dementia it does not mean that an individual will develop dementia. 3. Alzheimer's Disease: Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia. It is characterised by the accumulation of abnormal protein deposits in the brain, including beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles. These deposits disrupt normal brain function and lead to cognitive decline. 4. Vascular Factors: Cardiovascular risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, can increase the risk of vascular dementia. These conditions can damage blood vessels in the brain, impairing blood flow and leading to cognitive problems. 5. Lifestyle Factors: Certain lifestyle choices can impact the risk of dementia. Physical inactivity, poor diet, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and social isolation have been linked to an increased risk of cognitive decline. 6. Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries, especially repetitive ones as seen in sports-related injuries, have been associated with an increased risk of developing certain types of dementia, including chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). 7. Environmental Factors: Exposure to environmental toxins and pollutants may contribute to the development of dementia, although the exact mechanisms are still being studied. 8. Other Medical Conditions: Chronic medical conditions, such as Parkinson's disease, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia, can also cause dementia symptoms. As mentioned above it is important to note that while these factors are associated with an increased risk of dementia, they do not guarantee the development of the condition.
With regard to Para 5 there are actions we can take to help reduce this risk and I will chat about these in my next post. In the meantime, if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me. As I say I am not an expert but I do have a vested interest.
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