As we gather around the dinner table or meet with friends, the topic of health inevitably comes up, and one concern that resonates with many of us is the risk of dementia. It's a condition that touches the lives of millions and, according to Professor Matthew Kiernan, a leading neurologist and expert in neurodegenerative diseases, it's a topic that captures everyone's attention due to its widespread impact and the fear it instills.


The statistics are indeed alarming: dementia cases are set to nearly triple by 2050 in the Asia-Pacific region, which includes Australia. This region is home to one of the world's largest and fastest-growing older populations, and it's expected to account for more than half of global dementia cases. This surge is not just a statistic; it's a looming reality that could affect us, our loved ones, or our neighbors.


But there's a glimmer of hope on the horizon. Medical science is on the brink of a significant shift, with the potential to reduce dementia cases as treatments improve and our understanding of risk factors deepens. Professor Kiernan draws a parallel with the decline in heart attacks and strokes in Australia, attributing it to better management of vascular risk factors. He suggests that dementia could also become a controllable disease with the right approach.


The risks we know and those we don't

While some risk factors for dementia are beyond our control—such as genetics, age, and gender—there are 14 modifiable risk factors that we can address through lifestyle changes or medication. These factors are crucial in preventing or delaying the onset of dementia in up to 45% of cases.

The list includes familiar culprits like excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, hypertension, smoking, diabetes, high LDL cholesterol, air pollution, and inactivity. Traumatic brain injury is also a significant risk. Surprisingly, other factors such as early-life education, social isolation, and untreated vision and hearing loss play a role because they affect the brain's neural connections and its ability to stave off cognitive decline.


Depression: A newly-recognised risk factor

For the first time, untreated depression has been identified as a major modifiable risk factor for dementia. The link between inflammation in the brain and the onset of dementia is becoming clearer, and treating depression effectively could reduce the risk of developing dementia. This is a call to action for better mental health care and the exploration of anti-inflammatory treatments that could benefit those at risk.
The liver's role and metabolic disease

The liver's function as a metabolic hub is also under scrutiny. Nick Hunt, a scientist at The ANZAC Research Institute, is investigating the brain-gut axis and how metabolic diseases like diabetes affect our dementia risk. The liver's ability to process glucose and balance nutrients is vital, and failure to do so could accelerate dementia. This connection has led some researchers to refer to Alzheimer's as 'Type 3 Diabetes,' suggesting that diabetes drugs could also benefit Alzheimer's patients.


Protecting future generations

The focus isn't just on treating those at risk now; it's also about safeguarding future generations. Poor dietary choices in childhood could set the stage for dementia later in life. Nick Fuller, an expert in metabolic health, emphasizes the importance of healthy diets, exercise, and sleep habits in reducing the risk factors for disease. The quality of one's diet and the amount of sleep are both linked to dementia risk, with recent research highlighting the dangers of processed meats and the benefits of a balanced diet and adequate rest.
What can you do?

Reducing the risk of dementia doesn't require drastic measures. Simple lifestyle changes can make a significant difference. Engaging in social activities, learning new things, addressing hearing loss with aids, and ensuring quality sleep are all steps we can take to protect our cognitive health.

With new drug developments and a changing treatment landscape, there's reason for optimism. Professor Kiernan's message is clear: these conditions are treatable, and we're entering a therapeutic era for dementia.

As members of the Seniors Discount Club, we must stay informed and proactive about our health. By understanding and addressing these 14 risk factors, we can take charge of our brain health and potentially reduce the impact of dementia on our lives and our communities. Share your thoughts and strategies for maintaining cognitive health in the comments below, and let's support each other in this important endeavor.