New Study Identifies Factors That Impact Young Onset Dementia
A new study published in Jama Neurology has identified 15 environmental or lifestyle factors that can directly impact the onset of young onset dementia (YOD). This is groundbreaking as most research has focused on genetic factors in the search for an answer for young onset dementia.
This study offers hope that there are modifiable risk factors associated with YOD, and that individuals may be able to take action to reduce their risk of developing this debilitating condition.
Globally, there are approximately 370,000 new cases of young-onset dementia every year, with Alzheimer’s disease representing 5 to 10% of cases. Notably, in young people, memory loss is not often the first symptom. Instead, young-onset dementia is more likely to cause problems with movement, walking, coordination, or balance.
The research team analyzed data collected on 356,052 people under the age of 65 in the UK. Their findings indicated that factors such as low socio-economic status, social isolation, hearing disorders, stroke, diabetes, heart disease, depression, vitamin D deficiency, high levels of C-reactive protein, presence of specific genetic variants, alcohol abuse, low education levels, fragility, and orthostatic hypotension were associated with a higher risk of YOD.
While the findings do not prove that dementia is caused by these factors, understanding them helps build a more detailed picture. This kind of research is important for identifying causes and developing better treatments and preventative measures for dementia.
In a statement, neuroscientist Stevie Hendriks from Maastricht University emphasized the impact of young-onset dementia and the importance of understanding other risk factors beyond genetics to address this serious issue.
The findings also align with a 2020 update to The Lancet magazine’s historic report, which listed 12 modifiable risk factors for dementia in general. These factors include hypertension, untreated hearing loss, smoking, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, diabetes, poor education, alcohol consumption, air pollution, brain trauma, and passive smoking.
Overall, this research offers more hope to those working to find ways to defeat dementia rather than simply manage it. As more is learned about the causes of dementia, greater strides can be made in developing treatments and preventative measures, ultimately reducing the risk of dementia for individuals.