Quitting Smoking Linked to Slower Cognitive Decline, even in Later Life
New research suggests that stopping smoking can positively impact cognitive health, even for those who quit in their 50s or older. A study led by Dr. Mikaela Bloomberg of University College London, published in The Lancet Healthy Longevity, found that individuals who quit smoking experienced a slower rate of cognitive decline compared to those who continued to smoke.
The research team compared the cognitive function of adults aged 40 and over across 12 countries, tracking those who quit smoking against those who did not, over a six-year period. Initially, both groups performed similarly on cognitive assessments. However, after smoking cessation, former smokers demonstrated significant cognitive advantages. The study concluded that ”individuals who quit smoking had more favourable [cognitive] trajectories” and a reduced rate of cognitive decline.
While the study doesn’t definitively prove a cause-and-effect relationship, researchers believe the findings offer “compelling motivation” for older smokers to quit, a demographic less likely to attempt cessation.
The research reinforces the growing understanding of modifiable risk factors for dementia. The Lancet previously identified smoking as one of 14 such factors, alongside issues like depression, excessive alcohol consumption, hearing loss, and high cholesterol. Addressing these factors is believed to lower the overall risk of developing dementia.
Experts emphasize the broader benefits of a healthy lifestyle. dr. Richard Oakley of Alzheimer’s Society noted that quitting smoking, alongside physical activity, a balanced diet, and reduced alcohol intake, can all contribute to brain health.
Smoking is thoght to contribute to neurodegeneration through multiple pathways, including damage to cardiovascular health (affecting blood flow to the brain), chronic inflammation, and direct harm to brain cells via oxidative stress.
However, researchers also caution against interpreting the findings as a guarantee against dementia. Dr. Julia Dudley of Alzheimer’s Research UK pointed out that socioeconomic factors and alcohol consumption differences between groups could also influence cognitive decline.
Caroline cerny, Deputy Chief executive at Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), highlighted the importance of quitting at any age, especially before the onset of noticeable cognitive symptoms. She stressed the need for continued investment in stop smoking services.
Recent data from England shows a positive trend in cessation rates, with 35% of smokers attempting to quit last month, and a success rate of 29% - nearly double the rate recorded in 2007.
