A major report suggests that treating failing eyesight and high cholesterol are new ways to lower the risk of developing dementia.
Scientists have now identified 14 health issues that could theoretically prevent nearly half of the world's dementia cases.
The Lancet Commission's report emphasizes that middle-aged people and poorer countries have the most to gain from addressing these risk factors, predicting that the number of people living with dementia could more than double to 153 million by 2050.
While most dementia risk factors are beyond individual control, 45% can be modified through lifestyle changes.
Key recommendations include making hearing aids accessible, ensuring quality education, supporting smoking cessation, encouraging exercise, treating high blood pressure and cholesterol, addressing obesity early, reducing alcohol abuse, combating social isolation, and screening for eyesight problems.
The report highlights that hearing loss and high cholesterol are major preventable risk factors. Experts caution that while a healthy lifestyle can enhance brain resilience, most dementia risk remains beyond personal control.
The findings underscore the importance of public health measures to promote healthy living.
(colombotimes.lk)