World Health Organisation logo. Photo: WHO
The World Health Organisation has said nearly 45 per cent of dementia cases could be prevented or delayed by tackling lifestyle and environmental risk factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, physical inactivity and air pollution.
The global health body stated this on Wednesday as it released updated guidelines aimed at helping countries reduce the growing burden of dementia through early prevention and improved healthcare interventions.
According to the WHO, dementia is the seventh leading cause of death worldwide and a major contributor to disability and dependence among older adults. The condition, caused by diseases affecting the brain, impairs memory, thinking and the ability to carry out everyday activities.
The organisation said, “While there is no cure for dementia, up to 45 percent of the risks can be attributed to modifiable risk factors such as tobacco, alcohol use, social isolation, physical inactivity, air pollution and noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including high blood pressure and diabetes.”
