WORLD ALZHEIMER REPORT 2014

In conjunction with World Alzheimer’s Day (21 September), Alzheimer's Disease International [ADI] launched the World Alzheimer Report 2014, focused upon sets of potential modifiable risk factors in four key domains:

·      Developmental

·      Psychological and Psychosocial

·      Lifestyle  

·      Cardiovascular Risk Factors.

The World Alzheimer Report 2014 examines the latest existing evidence associated with dementia risk factors, ranging from smoking to socializing, and provides an analysis of interventions that have been trialed to create change around the world.  The report provides an invaluable resource and the basis upon which to campaign for change, and opens the door for more research in the area.

The Report highlights that:

·   dementia risk for populations can be modified through reduction in tobacco use and better control and detection for hypertension and diabetes, as well as cardiovascular risk factors.  A good mantra is “What is good for your heart is good for your brain”.

·   brain health promotion messages should be integrated in public health promotion campaigns such as anti-tobacco or non-communicable disease (NCD) awareness campaigns, with the message that it’s never too late to make these changes.

·   dementia needs to be included on World Health Organization (WHO) and National NCD Planning.

The report reveals that control of diabetes and high blood pressure as well as measures to encourage smoking cessation and to reduce cardiovascular risk, have the potential to reduce the risk of dementia even in late-life. The report found that diabetes can increase the risk of dementia by 50%. Obesity and lack of physical activity are important risk factors for diabetes and hypertension, and should, therefore, also be targeted.

While cardiovascular health is improving in many high income countries, many low and middle income countries show a recent pattern of increasing exposure to cardiovascular risk factors, with rising rates of diabetes, heart disease and stroke.

Smoking cessation is strongly linked in the report with a reduction in dementia risk. For example, studies of dementia incidence among people aged 65 years and over show that ex-smokers have a similar risk to those who have never smoked, while those who continue to smoke are at much higher risk.

Coinciding with the launch of the report, survey data released by Bupa has shown over two thirds (69%) of people around the world are concerned about getting dementia in later life, but many are unclear about the causes and the actions they can take to potentially reduce their risk.  

If we can all enter old age with better developed, healthier brains we are likely to live longer, happier and more independent lives with a much reduced chance of  developing dementia.

Download the Full Report here.

Take a look here at the info-graphics about risk reduction. 

Click on Video highlights the presentations and discussion at the launch of the World Alzheimer Report 2014 in London.