Nearly Half of Dementia Cases Preventable

Recent studies and reports emphasize that nearly half of dementia cases, including Alzheimer's disease, can be prevented or delayed through lifestyle modifications and addressing specific health issues. The Lancet Commission identified 14 risk factors, including newly added high cholesterol and vision loss, which together account for 45% of dementia risk. Preventative measures such as better education, social engagement, and managing economic instability are crucial. Vision tests could predict dementia up to 12 years before diagnosis, highlighting early intervention's importance. Newly approved drugs like Leqembi and Kisunla offer hope, but experts stress that no single pill will suffice; a holistic approach combining medication and lifestyle changes is necessary. As the global dementia burden is expected to triple by 2050, proactive measures are needed to mitigate the rising societal and economic costs.