Alteration in a single risk factor lowers the chance of stroke, dementia, and depression.
Managing age-related brain diseases such as stroke, dementia, and late-life depression can often feel like an endless game of Whac-a-Mole, with new symptoms arising after previous issues are addressed. To combat this, a preventive approach focusing on modifiable risk factors is crucial.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Brigham have been delving into the root causes of these diseases and have discovered shared risk factors among them. By concentrating on these commonalities, individuals can take charge of their health and reduce their risks.
The researchers looked at previous meta-analyses regarding stroke, dementia, and late-life depression and compiled the data to identify modifiable risk factors that impact at least two of these diseases. They also assessed each risk factor's impact on quality of life and early death. In total, 17 risk factors were identified:
- High blood pressure
- Kidney disease
- Elevated blood sugar
- High cholesterol
- Alcohol consumption
- Diet
- Hearing loss
- Pain
- Physical inactivity
- Purpose in life
- Sleep disorders
- Smoking
- Limited social interactions
- Stress
- Body mass index
- Limited cognitive activities
- Depressive symptoms
Out of these 17 factors, high blood pressure and severe kidney disease had the most significant impact on the incidence and burden of all three diseases. Active participation in leisure activities with a cognitive aspect, like puzzles, was linked to a lower risk of developing these diseases. However, it's possible that individuals with brain diseases may struggle with these activities. Nonetheless, research indicates that physical exercise is associated with a reduced risk of stroke and Alzheimer's.
The researchers' most exciting find was that modifying any one of the 17 shared risk factors can potentially decrease the risk of all three conditions. This discovery offers hope for those who may feel overwhelmed by the long list of risk factors.
Dr. Sanjula Singh, a senior author from Massachusetts General Hospital, commented, "Our study identified 17 modifiable risk factors shared between stroke, dementia, and/or late-life depression, emphasizing that there are many different steps individuals can take to lower their risks for these age-related brain diseases."
Healthcare professionals can use tools like the McCance Center Brain Care Score, which evaluates brain health and provides guidance for improvement, to implement these findings. The Brain Care Score, developed and validated by Mass General Brigham researchers, has been updated to reflect the latest scientific advancements.
Researchers emphasized the need for further investigations into the modifiable risk factors of late-life depression. They called for a randomized controlled trial using the Brain Care Score to test the effectiveness of preventive measures.
Dr. Jonathan Rosand of Massachusetts General Hospital concluded, "Preventing disease can be simple because many common diseases share the same risk factors." Addressing even one of these factors can substantially lower an individual's risk, such as eating more fruits and vegetables to benefit both blood pressure and kidney function.
[Sources]1. "17 modifiable risk factors shared by stroke, dementia, and late-life depression" - ScienceDaily2. "Modifiable risk factors for stroke, dementia and late-life depression: a systematic review and DALY-weighted risk factors for a composite outcome" - Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry
- By focusing on modifiable risk factors, individuals can reduce their risks for age-related brain diseases such as stroke, dementia, and late-life depression.
- Research has shown that high blood pressure and severe kidney disease have the most significant impact on the incidence and burden of all three diseases.
- Active participation in leisure activities with a cognitive aspect, like puzzles, is linked to a lower risk of developing these diseases, although individuals with brain diseases may struggle with these activities.
- Research indicates that physical exercise is associated with a reduced risk of stroke and Alzheimer's, offering hope for those battling these diseases.
- Addressing even one of the 17 identified shared risk factors, such as eating more fruits and vegetables, can substantially lower an individual's risk for age-related brain diseases, making prevention simple and achievable.
