Regular medical checkups, often focused on heart health, can play a crucial role in preserving cognitive function and delaying the onset of dementia, according to Dr. Gérald Kierzek. Speaking on France Bleu radio on Thursday, February 26, 2026, Dr. Kierzek outlined five key consultations individuals should prioritize to proactively safeguard their brain health.
The cornerstone of preventative care remains the annual visit to a general practitioner. This routine checkup, including blood tests, allows for the early detection of conditions like hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity – all factors increasingly recognized for their detrimental impact on neuronal health. Effectively managing these conditions is vital in reducing the long-term risk of cognitive decline.
Addressing substance use is also paramount. Excessive alcohol consumption and tobacco use are well-documented neurotoxins, contributing to memory problems, reduced concentration, and an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Kierzek emphasized the importance of seeking support from an addiction specialist in a non-judgmental environment, prioritizing overall health and well-being.
Often overlooked, maintaining optimal vision and hearing is critical for brain health. Declining sensory input can lead to reduced interaction with the environment, resulting in less reading, fewer social exchanges, increased fatigue, and social withdrawal. Regular consultations with an ophthalmologist and, when necessary, an audiologist or audioprosthetist, can help prevent isolation – a significant contributor to cognitive decline.
Surprisingly, the vaccine against shingles also offers a protective benefit. After the age of 50 or 60, shingles isn’t merely a painful condition; studies suggest a potential link between the virus and an increased risk of stroke or vascular dementia. Vaccination, provides both short-term protection and long-term preservation of cerebral arteries.
These five preventative measures – regular medical checkups, addiction support, sensory maintenance, and vaccination – form a comprehensive approach to brain health. Research published in The Lancet suggests that nearly 45% of dementia cases could be delayed or avoided by addressing these risk factors. Dr. Kierzek regularly discusses these topics on France Télévision’s “Télématin,” emphasizing that dementia is not an inevitable fate.
