GENEVA, Switzerland — The World Health Organization has stated that up to 45 percent of dementia cases can be prevented or delayed by tackling lifestyle and environmental risk factors, reinforcing the message that cognitive decline is not an inevitable consequence of ageing.
The WHO’s latest research highlights that interventions such as reducing alcohol consumption, managing hypertension, and maintaining a healthy weight can significantly lower the risk of developing dementia later in life. The study, which reviewed evidence from several major research papers on the link between healthy lifestyles and dementia prevention, updates previous estimates that suggested around 40 percent of cases could be prevented.
According to the findings, the most effective interventions for preventing dementia include addressing hearing loss, which accounts for 7 percent of cases, and lowering cholesterol levels, which contributes to 7 percent of cases. Managing high blood pressure and blood sugar levels, maintaining a healthy weight, and reducing alcohol consumption were also identified as key preventative measures. Additionally, the study noted that treating poor vision is another modifiable risk factor that can reduce the burden of the condition.
The review, published in The Lancet, compiled data from research papers on modifiable risk factors, including hypertension, diabetes, and smoking, and found that the number of preventable or delayable cases could be even higher than previous estimates. The findings were first summarised in a report in The Guardian newspaper.
The research emphasises the importance of healthy lifestyles in reducing the risk of dementia. It highlights the need for public health policies aimed at encouraging physical activity, promoting healthy eating, and ensuring regular health screenings for conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. The WHO has called on governments and health organisations to prioritise dementia prevention as part of broader public health strategies.
Dementia remains one of the leading causes of disability and dependency among older people worldwide, with millions of new cases diagnosed each year. The WHO’s latest findings offer hope that the global burden of the disease could be significantly reduced through targeted interventions. As the global population continues to age, the need for effective prevention strategies has become increasingly urgent.
For now, the WHO’s message is clear: dementia is not an inevitable part of ageing, and the choices made today can shape cognitive health in later life. The organisation continues to work with member states to develop and implement strategies aimed at reducing the global burden of dementia.
