The World Health Organization (WHO) said on Wednesday that up to 45 per cent of dementia risk can be prevented or delayed by tackling modifiable risk factors such as tobacco use and air pollution.
Dementia is the seventh leading cause of death worldwide and a major cause of disability and dependency among older people. It affects memory, thinking and the ability to carry out everyday activities.
The WHO said that, although there is no cure for dementia, up to 45 per cent of the risk is linked to preventable factors. These include tobacco use, alcohol consumption, social isolation, physical inactivity, air pollution, high blood pressure, diabetes and other non-communicable diseases.
More than 57 million people are living with dementia worldwide, while nearly 10 million new cases are diagnosed each year.
Alzheimer’s leads dementia cases
Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia and accounts for an estimated 60 to 70 per cent of all cases.
Devora Kestel, Director of the WHO Department of Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health, said dementia affects individuals, families and communities, with consequences for health, dignity, independence and well-being.
The WHO issued updated guidance on Wednesday to help health workers and policymakers prevent or delay the onset of dementia. It said the evidence supporting prevention has grown significantly since its first recommendations were published in 2019.
The guidance promotes early awareness and timely intervention to reduce the future burden of dementia. The WHO stressed that dementia is more common after the age of 65 but is not an inevitable part of ageing.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said countries now have clear, evidence-based recommendations to protect cognitive health.
As there is no cure or widely available treatment for dementia, the WHO said prevention remains the most effective approach. It recommended cognitive stimulation and training for adults with mild cognitive impairment, along with better management of high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol.
The WHO also called for stronger integration of services for non-communicable diseases, mental health and brain health.
The organisation said dementia costs the global economy an estimated $1.3 trillion each year, with around half of that amount reflecting unpaid care provided by family members and friends.
The WHO said understanding dementia risk factors and taking preventive action can improve health, quality of life and independence.
