Researchers found that nearly half of dementia cases may be linked to lifestyle risks you can change, such as smoking, high blood pressure, and heart disease. A study from Lund University examined how these modifiable factors are associated with brain changes related to Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia. The findings indicate that making healthier lifestyle choices could help delay the onset of dementia by reducing harmful brain changes, which is particularly relevant for those looking to maintain cognitive health as they age.

This research highlights the importance of addressing factors like smoking and cardiovascular health to potentially lower your risk of dementia. The study involved almost 500 participants, averaging 65 years old, who showed no signs of cognitive impairment at the start. Over four years, researchers tracked changes in the brain’s white matter and the accumulation of proteins related to Alzheimer’s. They found that modifiable risks were significantly linked to damage in the brain’s blood vessels, which can lead to vascular dementia.

While the study provides strong evidence of the connections between lifestyle choices and brain health, it’s important to note that these findings are based on a cohort study and need further validation through larger trials. The researchers emphasize that improving vascular and metabolic health can help mitigate the combined effects of various brain changes, making it crucial for individuals, especially those at risk for Alzheimer’s, to focus on healthier habits.