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Korea University Study Links⁤ Depression, Diabetes to Accelerated Dementia Risk

Seoul, south⁢ Korea – October 29, ‍2025 – A landmark 12-year study tracking over 330,000⁢ individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) has identified key lifestyle and health factors that dramatically increase ‍teh risk of progressing to ⁤Alzheimer’s dementia. Researchers⁣ at Korea ⁣University Guro Hospital found that depression,‌ lack of exercise, low body weight, and diabetes are​ major ⁣contributors to ⁤dementia​ growth.

The⁣ extensive research, conducted ⁣by a team including Professors Kang Seong-hoon and‌ Oh Gyeong-mi of Korea University Guro Hospital, ⁣Research Professor Min-woong Kang of ‍the Cancer Research Institute,⁢ and Professor kyeong-won Baek of Anam Hospital, provides crucial insights into modifiable risk factors‍ for dementia. This is notably significant‌ in‍ South Korea, where the population is aging rapidly and dementia prevalence is rising. The findings offer a pathway toward preventative strategies tailored ‍to the Korean‌ population’s‍ unique ⁤health characteristics,​ diverging from predominantly Western-focused dementia research.

Key Findings from the 12-Year Cohort⁤ Study

Researchers analyzed ⁢data from⁢ the National Health Insurance Service, following 336,313 adults aged 40 or older‌ diagnosed with MCI ​between 2009 and 2015. The study revealed a sharp increase​ in ‍dementia conversion rates after age 70. Individuals with depression faced a 1.7 times higher risk of developing dementia compared to those without. Infrequent exercise increased risk by 1.2 times, while being underweight and having diabetes‌ increased risk by 1.3 and ⁢1.37 times, respectively.

Conversely, ⁣regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, moderate ⁣alcohol ⁢consumption,⁣ urban​ living, and higher⁣ income‍ were⁣ identified as⁣ protective factors. Interestingly, while cardiovascular diseases like​ coronary⁢ artery‍ disease and ⁢hemorrhagic stroke‌ increased risk, hypertension and ischemic stroke did not show a ⁢significant association with dementia⁣ progression. This ​suggests⁢ that blood sugar control and mental wellbeing are paramount in preserving cognitive function.

Did You Know?

Dementia​ is not solely a consequence of ⁣aging; lifestyle choices and​ mental ‍health management play a significant ‌role in delaying its onset.

Implications for Dementia Prevention

the research team underscored the importance ​of ⁣addressing modifiable factors to mitigate dementia risk. They⁣ recommend at least⁢ 150⁣ minutes of weekly​ aerobic and strength training, a Mediterranean-style ⁢diet rich in vegetables, fish, and⁤ nuts, and consistent weight​ management. Effective diabetes and ⁤cardiovascular disease management, alongside treatment for depression and stress reduction, are also crucial. Moreover, fostering social ⁢connections and ⁤engaging in mentally stimulating activities like reading or playing musical instruments ⁣can contribute to dementia prevention.

Pro Tip:

Prioritizing⁣ mental health and regular physical activity⁤ are powerful steps you can ⁤take today to protect your cognitive future.

“This study clearly shows ‍what factors must be managed to slow down the progression of dementia ⁣and reduce the risk of developing it. It is significant in that the decline in cognitive function can be alleviated just by regular exercise, ‌controlling weight and blood sugar, ⁤and maintaining ‌mental health,” said‌ Professor‍ Seong-Hoon Kang.

Professor Kang emphasized that while ‍medication is important,‌ it ​must be integrated with lifestyle improvements and chronic disease management. The team plans to continue research focused on prevention-oriented brain health strategies.

The study’s findings were published in Scientific Reports (IF 4.6), a peer-reviewed, open-access journal‌ from Nature Portfolio. Scientific Reports is a highly ⁣regarded SCI-level international academic journal. The research received funding from Korea University Guro Hospital and the National Research Foundation⁢ of Korea.

What ⁤are your thoughts on these findings? Share your experiences and questions ​in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this article with anyone ​who might ⁤benefit‍ from this critically important⁣ information. Consider subscribing to our newsletter for more health and wellness updates.