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High blood pressure as the main factor: correctly assessing the risk of dementia
Find out which risk factor is crucial for dementia and how high blood pressure promotes the disease. Recent studies revealed.
High blood pressure as the main factor: correctly assessing the risk of dementia
In Germany, dementia is increasingly becoming a challenge as more and more people are affected by this nervous disease. There are currently 1.8 million citizens living with a diagnosis of dementia and it is estimated that this number will increase to 2.8 million by 2050. Despite numerous research efforts aimed at developing new treatment approaches, the progression of this disease has so far only been slowed down. One focus of research is currently on the risk factors that could lead to the development of the disease.
A comprehensive analysis carried out by scientists at University College London aims to identify the biggest risk factor for dementia. The researchers evaluated 68 years of data (from 1947 to 2015) from 27 different studies on dementia patients. Their results were published in the renowned journal The Lancet Public Health.
Five important risk factors for dementia
The study identified several key factors that may increase the risk of dementia. This includes:
- Diabetes
- Fettleibigkeit
- Bluthochdruck
- Rauchen
- Bildungsniveau
The question remains: which of these factors is most relevant? While each of these risk factors is important, high blood pressure, also known medically as hypertension, has been found to be the most significant risk factor. According to the study's lead author, Naaheed Mukadam, cardiovascular risk factors such as high blood pressure will require targeted attention in the prevention of dementia in the future.
The importance of high blood pressure
High blood pressure is one of the cardiovascular diseases that affect the heart and blood vessels and is directly linked to the risk of dementia. It is crucial to recognize and treat this condition early to minimize the risk of later dementia. In the past few decades alone, society has likely not invested enough in educating people about the effects of high blood pressure, which could be contributing to the rise in dementia cases.
Experts warn against underestimating this health factor. High blood pressure can often be asymptomatic, and many sufferers are unaware that they are at risk. Therefore, it is important to have regular health checks and be aware of your own heart health.
In summary, the research shows that prevention is the key here. A healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise and avoiding harmful substances such as alcohol and cigarettes can help keep blood pressure within normal ranges and therefore reduce the risk of dementia.
The explanation of neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia focuses on the loss of nerve cells and their functions in the brain. When this damage progresses to the point where the brain can no longer compensate, mobility and the ability to communicate with others become severely impaired. In this context, it is of great importance to keep an eye on the risk factors mentioned and to actively prevent them from having an impact.
Given the importance of early intervention, it is important to note that each individual should take responsibility for their health. Education and efficient prevention strategies can help preserve the quality of life of millions of people.