Dementia is a serious issue in the UK, claiming over 76,000 lives each year—making it the leading cause of death. Dr. Harry Pritchard, an Alzheimer’s Society Research Fellow at the University of Manchester, believes there are steps we can all take to reduce our risk.
Dementia isn’t just one disease; it’s an umbrella term for various brain disorders. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common, accounting for about 60% of all dementia cases. Currently, over a million people in the UK live with this condition, and alarmingly, a third of those may not even know they have it. What’s particularly concerning is that more younger people are being diagnosed, often misinterpreted as a midlife crisis.
Dr. Pritchard emphasizes that improving our vascular health can help in preventing dementia. Here are five lifestyle changes he recommends:
Control Blood Pressure: One in three adults in the UK has high blood pressure. When blood pressure stays high, it can harm blood vessels in the brain, leading to lasting damage and increasing the risk of dementia. Keeping blood pressure below 140/90 mmHg is crucial.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight can lead to various health issues, including a higher risk of dementia. Studies suggest that if a person is obese between ages 35 and 65, their risk of developing dementia later increases by around 30%.
Manage Blood Sugar Levels: With over four million people in the UK facing diabetes, many are unaware they have it. High blood sugar can damage blood vessels in the brain, raising the risk of dementia. Effectively managing diabetes can help mitigate this risk.
Quit Smoking: Smoking harms blood vessels and reduces blood flow to the brain. Quitting can significantly decrease your chances of developing dementia, and the sooner you quit, the better your health will be in the long run.
Stay Active: Regular exercise not only helps with weight management but also keeps your heart and blood vessels healthy. Research shows that physically active individuals are up to 20% less likely to develop dementia. Simple activities like walking, gardening, or cleaning can be beneficial.
A recent report indicates that dementia costs the UK a staggering £42 billion annually, a figure projected to increase to £90 billion in the next 15 years. The social implications are profound, with families often bearing the brunt of care.
Early diagnosis plays a vital role in managing symptoms such as memory issues and difficulty concentrating. Experts now suggest that changes in sensory perception could appear years before more common symptoms, highlighting the need for awareness.
With almost a million people currently living with dementia in the UK—and this number set to rise—it’s essential to consider not only individual health but also the broader social impact.
For more in-depth information on dementia and resources, you can visit the Alzheimer’s Society for further guidance and support.
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