Decline in Dementia Risk Across Generations Highlights Public Health Impact

Recent research from the University of Queensland reveals a significant reduction in dementia prevalence among younger generations compared to their predecessors. Analyzing data from over 62,000 individuals aged 70 and above, born between 1890 and 1948, the study demonstrates that individuals born more recently are less likely to develop dementia. For example, in the United States, 25.1% of those aged 81–85 born between 1890 and 1913 had dementia, whereas only 15.5% of those born between 1939 and 1943 in the same age group were affected.

The researchers attribute this positive trend to numerous improvements in public health, such as better cardiovascular health, higher levels of education (notably among women), improved living conditions, and increased access to healthcare. Dr. Sabrina Lenzen from UQ emphasizes that while overall dementia diagnoses might rise with increased longevity, the likelihood of developing dementia at a given age has decreased in recent cohorts.

The study's detailed analysis involved dividing participants into eight birth cohorts and six age groups, allowing the team to observe how dementia prevalence changed both with age and across different generations. Results showed that even within the same age brackets, individuals born more recently had a lower prevalence of dementia.

Improvements in controlling risk factors like blood pressure and cholesterol, along with advances in education, have likely contributed to these favorable trends. However, Dr. Lenzen warns that other emerging issues, such as rising obesity rates and air pollution, could threaten these gains.

The findings underscore the importance of continued public health efforts to mitigate risk factors associated with dementia. It highlights how societal advancements can influence health outcomes positively, emphasizing the need for ongoing investment in health promotion and disease prevention strategies.

Source: Medical Xpress