The World Health Organization has issued an important update to its guidelines on reducing the risk of cognitive decline and dementia, adding seven new risk factors to the previous list of 12.
Risk factors previously identified by the organization include: cognitive activity, social activity, physical inactivity, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, unhealthy diet, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, dyslipidemia (high blood lipid levels), hearing loss, and depression.
The new risk factors added in its latest update, based on the most recent evidence and developments in the field of dementia risk reduction, include:
1. Stroke – Cardiovascular disease affects brain health and is linked to an increased risk of dementia.
2. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) – Even mild head injuries can be life-threatening and lead to mood problems, depression, and anxiety.
3. Vision impairment – A large part of the brain is dedicated to vision, so vision impairment puts additional strain on the brain and may be associated with cognitive decline.
4. Sleep disorders – Sleep supports the brain's waste-cleaning processes, and sleep disorders such as sleep apnea can cause brain changes that resemble signs of Alzheimer's disease.
5. HIV – Untreated HIV can affect the central nervous system and is associated with virus-related cognitive decline.
6. Air pollution – The WHO recommends reducing exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution, especially fine particulate matter, as research has linked long-term exposure to air pollution with an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
The WHO does not recommend using MHT to prevent dementia in women over 65 and notes that there is insufficient evidence to determine its effect on dementia risk in younger women.
what is your opinion on this news ?do let us know in the comments on tha comment box
if you liked this news article please share on friends & family & don't forget to follow on website & social media
