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Beware of these lifestyles: they could predispose to dementia

Beware of these lifestyles: they could predispose to dementia.

About 50 million people worldwide suffer from some form of dementia. Research is making progress, but there is still no cure that can stop the degenerative process. Fortunately, there are therapies to relieve some symptoms and provide support for affected people and their families. Also, while not all causes of diseases like Alzheimer’s are clear yet, science has highlighted some risk factors.

We can do prevention by improving our habits

Unfortunately, we cannot intervene on the genetic factor.

According to recent studies, however, about 40% of cases of dementia are related to risk factors on which we have a margin of action.

A report of the Lancet Commission on dementia prevention, intervention and care of 2017 highlighted nine. Recently the studio has been extended and integrated with three other possible causes.

Beware of these lifestyles: they could predispose to dementia

What are they and what can we do to correct them?

The original list included diseases or dysfunctions such as hypertension and cardiovascular problems, premature hearing loss, obesity, depression, diabetes. Predisposing cultural and relational factors are the lack of social contacts and reduced education. Finally we have bad habits, such as smoking and insufficient physical activity.

To these is added, in this year’s review, the excessive consumption of alcohol. While the other two recently identified risk factors are head injuries and air pollution.

It is never too early, nor too late to start correcting our habits

Even if we have neglected some aspect of our health to date, changing course can still make a difference.

We therefore need to pay attention to these lifestyles: they could predispose to dementia. How can we intervene?

First of all, we should avoid smoking and abusing alcohol. These substances are harmful to the body in more ways than we usually imagine. If we struggle with an addiction, we can seek professional help and support.

We also have room for action on physical activity, on proper nutrition to stay healthy and on the search for stimuli and social contacts.

We try to keep blood pressure at optimal levels. Those suffering from hypertension will have to follow the therapy prescribed by a doctor. Those who do not suffer from it can do prevention with the right ones eating habits.

We protect hearing. For some professions it will be useful to protect themselves from excessive exposure to noise, with appropriate devices. Those who are losing their hearing, perhaps prematurely, should use a hearing aid.

The role of institutions and society

In addition to the action of the individual, social, cultural and health policies are decisive.

First of all, they must intervene on poverty and inequalities, so that every person has access to a better quality of life. This includes education, information and accessibility for proper nutrition, health care, socialization possibilities.

Above all, it is essential to ensure excellent levels of schooling and education for everyone.

The aim of reducing pollution and promoting the healthiness of the environment should not be overlooked.

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