Up to 45% of Dementia Risk Can Be Prevented or Delayed
The World Health Organization (WHO) has released updated global guidelines on reducing the risk of cognitive decline and dementia, saying that up to 45 percent of dementia cases could be prevented or delayed by addressing modifiable risk factors throughout life.
More than 57 million people worldwide are living with dementia, while nearly 10 million new cases are diagnosed each year. Alzheimer’s disease remains the most common form, accounting for an estimated 60–70 percent of all cases.
Although there is currently no cure for dementia, WHO says a significant share of the risk is linked to preventable factors, including tobacco and alcohol use, physical inactivity, social isolation, air pollution, and noncommunicable diseases such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
“We know more today than ever before about what drives dementia risk, and these guidelines translate that knowledge into action,” WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said. “Countries now have clear, evidence-based recommendations they can put into practice immediately to protect people’s cognitive health.”
The updated guidance builds on WHO’s 2019 recommendations and reflects new scientific evidence on preventing cognitive decline. It urges countries to integrate dementia prevention into services for noncommunicable diseases, mental health and brain health.
WHO recommends several lifestyle measures to lower dementia risk, including regular physical activity, quitting tobacco, limiting alcohol consumption, eating a healthy diet, staying socially engaged, and participating in cognitive training and stimulation activities. The guidelines also introduce a new recommendation to reduce exposure to air pollution.
Managing cardiometabolic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and high cholesterol is also highlighted as an effective way to reduce dementia risk. In addition, WHO says hearing aids may be offered as part of dementia risk-reduction strategies for people with hearing loss.
However, the organization advises against taking vitamin B or E supplements, omega-3 fatty acids, or multivitamin and mineral supplements solely to prevent dementia in people without diagnosed deficiencies, citing insufficient evidence of benefit and the potential for harm.
Beyond its health impacts, dementia reduces a person’s independence, dignity and ability to carry out daily activities, placing a heavy burden on families and caregivers.
The condition also carries a significant economic cost, with WHO estimating that dementia costs the global economy about US$1.3 trillion each year. Around half of that amount is attributed to unpaid care provided by family members and friends.
WHO said greater awareness of dementia risk factors and wider adoption of preventive measures could help people live longer, healthier and more independent lives while easing the growing social and economic burden of the disease.
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