United States: Recent research has surfaced two unforeseen contributors to Alzheimer’s disease: untreated visual deterioration and elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which have been identified as increasing the likelihood of developing this prevalent form of dementia.
LDL, often dubbed “bad cholesterol,” is notorious for its detrimental health effects when found in high concentrations. A study spearheaded by University College London, which saw publication in The Lancet on August 10, underscores this association. Additionally, these findings were spotlighted at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC) held in Philadelphia on July 31, according to Fox News.
Vision impairment and elevated LDL cholesterol now join an already established list of 12 other risk factors identified in 2020 by the same research group. These pre-existing risk factors encompass hearing loss, limited education, smoking, hypertension, obesity, physical inactivity, depression, diabetes, excessive alcohol intake, exposure to air pollution, traumatic brain injury, and social isolation.
In pursuit of these revelations, the researchers meticulously analyzed a wealth of recent studies focused on vision impairment and heightened cholesterol levels. Collectively, these 14 factors contribute to approximately half of all dementia cases worldwide, according to the researchers, suggesting that addressing these issues could substantially reduce the global incidence of dementia, as per Fox News.
Fiona Carragher, chief policy and research officer at the Alzheimer’s Society in the UK, highlighted the implications of the study, stating, “Certain dementia risk factors, like alcohol intake and physical exercise, can be mitigated through lifestyle changes. However, others require broader societal interventions.” Carragher emphasized that factors such as social isolation, educational disparities, and air pollution are beyond individual control, necessitating public health initiatives and collaborative efforts between government and industry.
The study received partial funding from the Alzheimer’s Society, further underscoring its significance in the field of dementia research.
Dr Earnest Lee Murray, a board-certified neurologist at Jackson-Madison County General Hospital in Jackson, Tennessee, weighed in on the findings, noting that they reinforce long-held beliefs about dementia. Although not directly involved in the study, Murray observed, “The Lancet study confirms that higher LDL levels—often linked to diet and lifestyle choices—are associated with an increased risk of developing dementia,” according to Fox News.
Murray also acknowledged that genetic factors might influence LDL levels, but he stressed that dietary adjustments can still prove beneficial, even for those with a genetic predisposition.
The connection between vision loss and dementia did not come as a surprise to Murray. “It has long been observed that individuals with higher education levels and a habit of extensive reading tend to develop dementia at a later age,” he remarked. “Our reliance on vision to engage with our surroundings and stimulate cognitive processes is profound.”
In his clinical practice, Murray frequently encounters inquiries from patients about strategies to prevent or mitigate the risk of dementia. “Patients generally have a solid understanding of what constitutes a heart-healthy diet and lifestyle,” he explained.
Murray pointed out that the brain is a highly vascular organ intricately linked to the heart’s health. “I often tell my patients, ‘What’s good for the heart is good for the brain.’ This encompasses not only dietary changes, such as adopting low-fat and low-cholesterol diets, but also lifestyle modifications, including quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption,” as per Fox News.
He also cited evidence suggesting that the Mediterranean diet may delay the onset of dementia. Additionally, Murray emphasized the importance of regular physical activity, which is beneficial not only from a vascular perspective but also for mental health.
Engaging in cognitively stimulating activities is another recommended approach to delaying dementia, according to Murray. “I advise my patients to find intellectually challenging activities they enjoy, whether it’s solving puzzles or reading complex literature. These activities help maintain cognitive function and can delay the onset of dementia,” as per Fox News.”
To prevent vision impairment, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended regular eye tests, wearing protective eyewear in hazardous environments, and using sunglasses to shield against harmful UV rays. The CDC also advises knowing one’s family’s eye health history, consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, and avoiding smoking as preventive measures against vision loss.