Dementia: Study finds 15 risk factors; not all are genetic​

A new UK based study has shed more light on dementia and its causes and it also break several myths associated with this global concern. As per the World Health Organisation (WHO), currently more than 55 million in the world are living with dementia. The study challenges the notion that genetics are the sole cause of the condition, researchers have said. The findings of this study is relevant because identifying the causes of the disease will help in getting medical assistance.

The study "breaks new ground" and could "herald a new era" for interventions to reduce new cases, Dr Janice Ranson, one of the study's authors told BBC. The study highlights the risk factors of young onset of dementia. Conventionally, young-onset dementia includes patients with onset before 65 years of age. Until now, the youngest incidence of dementia has been seen in individuals as young as 30.

The study, which has been published in JAMA Neurology journal, identifies the risk factors which are associated with lower risk of incidence of young onset of dementia and higher risk of the disease. The researchers have identified that the risk factors are: alcohol use, higher formal education, and lower physical frailty, low socioeconomic status, apolipoprotein E status, alcohol use disorder, social isolation, vitamin D deficiency, high C-reactive protein levels, hearing impairment, orthostatic hypotension, stroke, diabetes, heart disease, and depression.

The study included more than 350,000 participants under the age of 65. These participants were a part of the UK Biobank study. “While further exploration of these risk factors is necessary to identify potential underlying mechanisms, addressing these modifiable factors may prove effective in mitigating the risk of developing young onset dementia and can be readily integrated in current dementia prevention initiatives," the researchers told the Guardian.

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Dementia is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by a decline in cognitive function, affecting memory, reasoning, and the ability to perform daily activities. It is not a specific disease but rather a syndrome associated with various underlying conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease. Individuals with dementia may experience memory loss, confusion, language difficulties, and changes in mood or personality. As the condition advances, it impairs independence and daily functioning. Dementia is a significant global health concern, and early diagnosis and appropriate care are crucial for managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for both individuals with dementia and their caregivers.

While identifying the risk factors helps decrease the risk of developing this neurological complication, early identification of the symptoms also helps in getting early medical help. Early symptoms of dementia often include subtle cognitive changes, such as forgetfulness, difficulty recalling names or recent events, and challenges with problem-solving. Individuals may exhibit confusion, struggle to find the right words, or experience mood swings and personality shifts. Decreased ability to plan or organize, repeating tasks, and getting lost in familiar places are common signs. Changes in judgment, withdrawal from social activities, and a decline in overall cognitive function become apparent. While these symptoms may vary, their persistence and impact on daily life signal the need for a comprehensive medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and initiate appropriate care and support.