Midlife Precautions Can Delay Dementia by 13 Years
According to an international study, avoiding high blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking in midlife can postpone the onset age of dementia.
An international study led by researchers at New York University has revealed that avoiding high blood pressure, diabetes, and tobacco use during midlife can delay the onset of dementia by an average of 13 years.
Comprehensive International Research
In an international study, the long-term effects of lifestyle and health habits during midlife on brain health in later years were examined in detail.
12 Thousand People Monitored
Researchers at New York University closely followed more than 12,000 individuals aged 55 with no symptoms of dementia for approximately 25 years.
Three Risk Factors Examined
The study investigated the negative effects of modifiable risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and tobacco use on brain health.
13 Years Longer
The findings showed that individuals aged 45-65 who did not have any of these three risk factors remained free of dementia for an average of 13 years longer compared to those carrying the risks.
Global Dementia Statistics
It was recalled that, according to World Health Organization data, more than 57 million people worldwide live with dementia, with approximately 10 million new cases recorded each year.
Expert Evaluations
Prof. Sarah Harper from the University of Oxford noted that nearly half of the cases could theoretically be prevented or delayed by managing risk factors.
Dr. Josef Coresh, an expert from NYU, pointed out that the risk increases rapidly after age 55, emphasizing the importance of controlling risk factors in midlife.
Lifestyle Choices
Experts emphasized that blood pressure and blood sugar control, as well as staying away from smoking, are largely related to personal lifestyle choices.
Healthy Living Habits
Scientists underlined that a balanced diet and regular physical activity should become a life habit starting from midlife.