The World Health Organization (WHO) has released updated global guidelines stating that up to 45% of dementia cases could be prevented or delayed by addressing a range of modifiable risk factors throughout life.
The guidelines, published on July 15, are the second edition of WHO’s recommendations on reducing the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. They highlight that while there is currently no cure for dementia, individuals and governments can take steps to lower the risk through healthier lifestyles and better management of chronic diseases.
WHO identified several modifiable risk factors, including tobacco use, harmful alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, social isolation, high blood pressure, diabetes and, for the first time, long-term exposure to air pollution.
The agency also recommends regular physical activity, a healthy diet, maintaining social connections, controlling blood pressure and diabetes, quitting smoking, and seeking treatment for hearing loss to help protect brain health.
In addition, WHO advises against the routine use of vitamin supplements, omega-3 fatty acids or multivitamins to prevent dementia in people without diagnosed deficiencies, citing insufficient evidence that they reduce the risk.
According to WHO, dementia affects millions of people worldwide and is one of the leading causes of disability and dependency among older adults, with the number of cases expected to continue rising as populations age. (Newswire)