Dementia is a complex condition that impacts millions globally. It remains a critical area of research and public health focus and directly affects about 70,000 New Zealanders who are living with the condition. The impact on those affected, and their families, is immeasurable. The recent publication by the Lancet Commission, titled “Dementia Prevention, Intervention, and Care: 2024 Report of the Lancet Standing Commission,” offers the latest insights and updates to its previous findings.
Whether you’re directly affected by dementia or simply interested in the latest advancements, staying informed about these updates can help you better understand and contribute to the fight against dementia.
What is the Lancet Commission on Dementia?
The Lancet Commission on Dementia is a prestigious body that reviews and synthesizes the latest research on dementia. Its reports are highly regarded for providing evidence-based recommendations on preventing and managing the condition. The 2024 report was published in August this year and it builds upon previous editions to the most up-to date research.
Sharpening the Focus on Dementia Prevention
One of the major updates in the 2024 report is an expanded emphasis on dementia prevention. While earlier reports already highlighted the importance of lifestyle factors in reducing dementia risk, the 2024 edition offers a more detailed analysis of how different interventions can be more effectively tailored to individuals.
According to the 2024 Lancet Commission report on dementia, approximately 45% of dementia cases are attributed to modifiable risk factors. This statistic underscores the significant impact that lifestyle and health choices can have on reducing the risk of developing dementia. By addressing these modifiable factors, individuals can significantly impact their likelihood of developing dementia and contribute to better overall cognitive health.
Actions You Can Take to Reduce Your Risk
Improve Cardiovascular Health
- Hypertension: Research suggests that effectively managing hypertension can reduce the risk of dementia. This is because high blood pressure damages tiny blood vessels in the brain, called capillaries, increasing the risk of cognitive decline.
- Did you know? cGP works by spurring on the growth and repair of capillaries in the brain, supporting brain health, especially from middle age onwards. To support healthy blood pressure and blood vessels in your brain, try cGPMAX Cardiovascular Health, with natural cGP and other research-backed ingredients.
- Cholesterol and Diabetes: Improving control over so called 'bad' cholesterol (LDL) levels and diabetes can also significantly lower dementia risk. For instance, addressing diabetes alone can reduce the risk of dementia, as diabetes contributes to vascular damage in the brain.
- Did you know? cGP significantly lowers blood sugar over time, as measured by a marker called HBA1c. It takes about 3 months of taking cGPMAX to see the reduction in HBA1c. To support healthy blood sugar control, try cGPMAX Pure with natural cGP.
- Engage in Mentally Stimulating Activities: Studies have shown that engaging in regular cognitive activities like puzzles, reading, and learning new skills can reduce dementia risk. Cognitive stimulation helps keep the brain active and may improve cognitive reserve, which can delay the onset of dementia symptoms.
- Did you know? cGPMAX Brian Health supports memory recall and speed of thinking, helping banish brain fog. It delivers all the benefits of natural cGP, together with Bacopa extract, which is proven to support healthy cognition.
- Stay Curious and Learn Continuously: Taking up new hobbies or educational courses can help keep your mind active and engaged.
- Reduce Social Isolation: Being socially active and maintaining strong social connections can lower dementia risk. Social interaction helps keep the brain engaged and reduces the risk of isolation-related cognitive decline. Stay connected with friends, family, and community groups.
- Participate in Community Activities: Join clubs, volunteer, or engage in community events to build and maintain social connections.
- Follow a Balanced Diet: Emphasize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting processed foods and high-sugar items. The Mediterranean diet has been studied extensively as way of protecting the brain, it supports overall brain health and reduces inflammation.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid excessive consumption of sugary or caffeinated beverages.
- Engage in Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, per week. That equates to 20 minutes per day which is doable my most people. Make physical activity a priority. Regular physical exercise is associated with a reduction in dementia risk. Exercise improves cardiovascular health, reduces inflammation, and boosts cognitive function, all of which contribute to lower dementia risk.
- Include Strength and Balance Exercises: Incorporate activities that enhance strength, flexibility, and balance, which are beneficial as you age.
- Manage Stress: Managing stress and treating depression can reduce dementia risk. Mental health issues can affect cognitive function and addressing them can help maintain brain health. If you experience symptoms of depression or anxiety, consult a healthcare professional.
- Did you know? The very first clinical study on cGPMAX was done on patients with Parkinson’s Disease. As well as showing that cGP crosses the blood brain barrier, this study also showed that taking cGP resulted in improved mood and less anxiety. To support your mood, try cGPMAX Brain Health.
- Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol use can increase the risk of cognitive decline. Limiting alcohol intake to moderate levels can reduce dementia risk. Stick to moderate drinking guidelines, if you choose to drink at all.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking is linked to a higher risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Seek support to quit smoking and improve your overall health. Quitting smoking is associated with a reduction in dementia risk. Smoking is a known risk factor for cognitive decline due to its impact on vascular health and brain function.
- Get Your Hearing Tested Regularly: Regular hearing check-ups can help identify hearing loss early. For each 10-dB worsening of hearing, individuals have a 16% increase in dementia risk. Overall, research shows that early intervention with hearing aids or other assistive devices can mitigate the risk associated with hearing impairment by approximately 7%.
- Get Regular Eye Exams: Regular eye exams can help detect vision problems early and prevent or manage conditions that may lead to vision loss. Addressing vision impairments can also help reduce dementia risk by, though specific percentage reductions are less clearly defined. Vision correction improves overall quality of life and cognitive engagement.
- Traumatic Brain Injury: Head knocks have been shown to increase the risk of developing dementia. The earlier in life the head knock occurs, the larger the risk of subsequently developing dementia. Use helmets and head protection in contact sports and on bicycles.
- Air Pollution a Newly Identified Risk: Bringing together large data sets from multiple research studies now shows that air quality has an impact on dementia risk. Although it is not as easy to control your air quality in the region where you live, it is possible to avoid obviously polluted air, for example breathing in smoke from an open fire place. You could also considering installing an air filter in your home.
By incorporating these strategies into your daily life, you can take proactive steps to reduce your risk of developing dementia and support overall brain health. cGPMAX supplements can support brain health and cardiovascular health and they work best alongside a healthy lifestyle.
About The Lancet Commissions
The Lancet Commissions are an initiative of The Lancet, one of the world’s leading medical journals. Established to tackle pressing global health challenges, these commissions bring together a diverse group of leading experts from various fields to produce in-depth, evidence-based reports. Their work is highly influential in shaping health policies and research agendas worldwide.
The members of the Lancet Commissions are distinguished by the high calibre of their research. The members are leading experts in their respective fields, known for their significant contributions to research and practice.
The 2024 Lancet Commission report on dementia is a prime example of their impactful work. This report offers updated insights and recommendations on dementia prevention, intervention, and care, reflecting the latest research and addressing global challenges in dementia care.