Alzheimer's Society comment on study that highlights link between healthy heart and healthy brain

'Dementia is one of people's biggest fears in later life but very few people realise that there are things they can do to reduce their risk of developing this devastating condition.

This study adds weight to the growing evidence that a healthy heart means a healthy brain. Evidence suggests that the best way to reduce your risk of developing dementia is to keep active, eat a balanced diet, don't smoke and to get your blood pressure and cholesterol checked regularly. Although this study did not find a link between obesity and dementia, other research has found that it is important to keep a healthy weight.

One million people will develop dementia in the next 10 years. We must act now to find a cause, cure and better care for this devastating condition.'

Neil Hunt
Chief Executive
Alzheimer's Society

Reference:  Risk of dementia hospitalisation associated with cardiovascular risk factors in midlife and older age: the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study

Notes to editors

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 700,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than 20 years nearly a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051.
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them.
  
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
• Alzheimer's Society needs to raise money to help people live well with dementia today and for research to find a cure for tomorrow. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk

For futher information please contact the press office on 0207 423 3595 or email press@alzheimers.org.uk