Dementia can be delayed for years - what to avoid
A study has shown that controlling three factors — hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and smoking — can delay dementia by years. Researchers observed 12,000 people and found that the absence of these factors around age 50 extends life without dementia by nearly 13 years. Blood tests for Alzheimer's biomarkers, their limitations, and the role of genetics are also discussed.
A study led by Joseph Coresh from NYU Langone Health has shown that controlling three risk factors — hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and smoking — can significantly delay the onset of dementia. Researchers analyzed medical data from over 12,000 participants who were followed for several decades. The average age of volunteers at the start was about 56. Participants around age 50 who had none of the three risk factors lived without dementia nearly 13 years longer than those with all three. Even eliminating just one adverse factor can have a positive impact. Special attention is given to blood pressure: the earlier it is controlled, the longer brain vessel health can be maintained. The article also discusses blood tests for Alzheimer's biomarkers, particularly p-tau217. It notes that high levels of this biomarker increase the likelihood of cognitive decline but are not a diagnosis. The genetic factor (APOE4 gene variant) also influences risk but does not negate the benefits of lifestyle changes. Additional data on the benefits of physical exercise, the MIND diet, adequate sleep, and social activity are mentioned.