World Alzheimer's month campaign "Never too early, never too late" - risk factors & risk reduction
Recognise the risk factors associated with dementia and take proactive steps towards risk reduction.
Physical inactivity
Regular physical activity is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of dementia.
Smoking
Smoking greatly increases your risk of developing dementia.
Excessive alcohol consumption
Alcohol misuse and drinking more than 21 units weekly increase the risk of dementia.
Air pollution
A growing amount of research evidence shows that air pollution increases the risk of dementia.
Head injury
Policymakers should use public health and other policy measures to reduce head injuries.
Infrequent social contact
It is well established that social connectedness reduces the risk of dementia.
Less education
A low level of education in early life affects cognitive reserve and is one of the most significant risk factors for dementia.
Obesity
Particularly in mid-life, obesity is associated with an increased risk of dementia.
Hypertension
Hypertension (high blood pressure) in mid-life increases a person’s risk of dementia
Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a clear risk factor for development of future dementia.
Depression
People with hearing loss have a significantly increased risk of dementia.
Hearing impairment
People with hearing loss have a significantly increased risk of dementia
