Healthy lifestyle may cut risk of dementia regardless of genes
A healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, not smoking and watching alcohol intake could reduce the risk of dementia – even in those with a genetic predisposition to such conditions, researchers say.
Recent figures suggest there are 850,000 people living with dementia in the UK, and it is the leading cause of death for women in England. Many studies have indicated that lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of developing such conditions. A recent report suggested a third of cases could be prevented by tackling factors such as exercise, blood pressure, hearing and diet. In May, the World Health Organisation released guidelines on how to lead a brain-healthy lifestyle.