Tackling these 17 factors could cut your risk of stroke, dementia and late-life depression

Making lifestyle adjustments could be the key to reducing your risk of developing a stroke, dementia, or late-life depression, according to recent research. A study has identified 17 overlapping risk factors for these brain-related conditions, and addressing even one of these factors can have a positive impact on others.

For example, taking up biking to increase physical activity can help with high cholesterol and high blood pressure, both of which are risk factors for stroke, dementia, and depression. The findings of this study offer a glimmer of hope, showing that many of these conditions could potentially be prevented with the right lifestyle changes.

Anthony Levinson, a professor at McMaster University, emphasized the importance of reducing risks associated with these conditions, especially as the number of people with dementia is expected to triple by 2050. Previous research has shown that addressing modifiable risk factors could prevent or slow down a significant percentage of strokes, dementia, and late-life depression cases.

The study, published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, analyzed data from 59 studies conducted between 2000 and 2023 to identify the shared risk factors for stroke, dementia, and late-life depression. The research highlighted 17 modifiable risk factors, with some factors lowering the risk and others increasing it.

Factors that were associated with a decreased risk included regular cognitive activities, moderate or high levels of physical activity, a sense of purpose in life, and low to moderate alcohol intake. On the other hand, factors such as high blood pressure, kidney disease, smoking, high blood sugar, and poor sleep were linked to an increased risk.

The study also found that diet and social engagement played a crucial role in reducing or increasing the risk of developing these conditions. A diet high in vegetables, fruit, nuts, fish, and dairy was beneficial, while a diet high in red meat, sugary beverages, candy, and excess salt increased the risk. Similarly, having a large social network was good for the brain, while loneliness or isolation was detrimental.

While it’s never too late to make lifestyle changes, the study emphasized that starting in mid-life, in one’s 40s and 50s, could lead to the best outcomes. High blood pressure was identified as the most dangerous risk factor for these conditions, underscoring the importance of managing it effectively.

Researchers suggested that a combination of factors, such as damaged blood vessels compromising blood flow to the brain, could contribute to the development of stroke, dementia, and late-life depression. Addressing risk factors like high blood pressure could have a significant impact on reducing the incidence of these conditions.

In conclusion, the study highlighted the importance of lifestyle modifications in reducing the risk of stroke, dementia, and late-life depression. By focusing on factors like physical activity, diet, social engagement, and managing chronic conditions, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their brain health. Additionally, advocating for policy changes at a population level could help create environments that promote healthier lifestyles and reduce the burden of these brain-related conditions on society.