Did you know that dementia, according to Alzheimer's UK, represents a major public health concern.
A the startling statistic reveals that one in every three individuals born in the UK today is likely to develop the condition during their lifetime.
While aging remains the predominant risk factor for dementia, the condition does not exclusively impact the elderly.
This brings into focus young-onset dementia (YOD) — a variant of dementia that affects those under the age of 65, which until recently has not been as thoroughly researched or understood as its late-onset counterpart.
In a comprehensive analysis of data from over 350,000 participants under 65 in the UK Biobank study, researchers uncovered a broad spectrum of 15 risk factors associated with young-onset dementia (YOD).
These factors echo the risks identified for late-onset dementia, encompassing a range of lifestyle, health, and socioeconomic elements:
Lower formal education
Lower socioeconomic status
Orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure)
Alcohol use disorder
Genetic variations
Social isolation
Vitamin D deficiency
Depression
Stroke
Hearing impairment
Heart disease
Diabetes
Lower handgrip strength
High levels of C-reactive protein (indicating inflammation in the body)
Abstaining from alcohol us
This detailed identification of risk factors challenges previous assumptions that genetics are the sole cause of YOD and opens new avenues for targeted prevention strategies.
Professor David Llewellyn from the University of Exeter highlighted the significance of this research, stating, "For the first time, it reveals that we may be able to take action to reduce the risk of this debilitating condition, through targeting a range of different factors."
Dr. Stevie Hendriks from Maastricht University, added, "Young-onset dementia has a very serious impact... The cause is often assumed to be genetic, but for many people, we don’t actually know exactly what the cause is."
Dr. Leah Mursaleen, Head of Clinical Research at Alzheimer’s Research UK, emphasised the shift in understanding dementia risk. "In recent years, there’s been a growing consensus that dementia is linked to 12 specific modifiable risk factors... It’s now accepted that up to four in 10 dementia cases worldwide are linked to these factors."
This study marks a new era in interventions and strategies to reduce the incidence of YOD. By understanding and addressing these modifiable risk factors, there is potential for significant impact in preventing or delaying the onset of this condition.
1. What are the key risk factors for young-onset dementia identified in the study?
Lower education and socioeconomic status, genetic variations, lifestyle factors like alcohol use and social isolation, and health issues including vitamin D deficiency, depression, and heart disease.
2. How does this study change our understanding of dementia?
It challenges the notion that genetics are the sole cause of young-onset dementia and emphasises the role of modifiable lifestyle and health factors.
3. What does this mean for dementia prevention?
It suggests that targeting specific health and lifestyle factors could reduce the risk of young-onset dementia.
4. Is young-onset dementia solely caused by genetic factors?
No, this study reveals that a range of health and lifestyle factors also play a significant role.
5. What can I do to reduce my risk of developing young-onset dementia?
To reduce your risk, consider modifying factors within your control, such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This includes engaging in regular physical activity, managing alcohol consumption, ensuring adequate vitamin D levels, and addressing mental health issues like depression. Social engagement and maintaining a healthy diet can also contribute to lowering the risk.
This article is for general information only and is not intended to treat or diagnose medical conditions. If in doubt please check with your GP first.
Reference:
[1] "Risk factors for young-onset dementia in the UK Biobank: A prospective population-based study," JAMA Neurology, DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2023.4929.
[2] University of Exeter and Maastricht University research collaboration.
[3] Alzheimer’s Research UK's involvement in co-funding the study.
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