🧠 Dementia Prevention, Intervention, and Care: 2024 Report (Lancet Commission)

Nearly Half of Dementia Cases Could Be Prevented by Addressing 14 Modifiable Risk Factors

Published In: The Lancet
Date: August 2024
Authors: Livingston, et al.
Link to Study: https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(24)01296-0

Summary
This major update from the Lancet Commission highlights that up to 40 – 50% of dementia cases might be preventable by tackling 14 modifiable risk factors throughout life. This report is a meta-analysis, drawing on a wide range of studies to consolidate evidence and provide comprehensive guidance on strategies for delaying or preventing dementia. It identifies key risk factors across the lifespan, including:

  • Hypertension
  • Hearing loss
  • Smoking
  • Obesity
  • Depression
  • Physical inactivity
  • Diabetes
  • Low education
  • Excessive alcohol use
  • Traumatic brain injury
  • Air pollution, and
  • Social isolation

This report emphasizes the need for global policy efforts and individualized interventions to address them effectively. Prevention efforts can start at any age and benefit everyone, including those with a genetic risk. The report emphasizes the need for both individual lifestyle changes and broader public health policies.

Key Takeaways
✅ Untreated hearing and vision loss, and high LDL cholesterol, are confirmed new risk factors for dementia.
✅ Addressing 14 modifiable risks could prevent or delay nearly half of dementia cases globally.
✅ Actions like using hearing aids, treating depression, managing blood pressure and cholesterol, and staying socially active are beneficial.
✅ Policy efforts should target underserved populations, where the burden of risk is often higher.
✅ Preventive benefits exist even for those with a genetic predisposition to dementia.

Why It Matters for You
Staying physically, mentally, and socially active, managing chronic conditions, and addressing sensory loss early could significantly reduce your risk of dementia. It’s never too early – or too late – to take steps for brain health.

Citation
Livingston, G., et al. (2024). Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2024 report of the Lancet standing Commission. The Lancet, 404, 572–628. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(24)01296-0