Abdominal fat could increase risk of developing dementia claims study

The preliminary findings of research by the University School of Medicine in Boston are published in Annals of Neurology.

The study of more than 700 middle aged people found an inverse association between visceral fat levels in the abdomen and total brain volume. Lower total brain volume is a strong predictor of incident dementia.  

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'We have all heard how a beer belly can be bad for our heart but this study suggests carrying excess abdominal weight could also increase your risk of getting dementia. This is not really surprising as a large stomach is associated with high blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes - all major risk factors for dementia.'

'While this large and robust study builds on the growing literature looking at links between obesity and dementia more work is needed. One in three people will die with dementia yet dementia research is drastically underfunded. We must invest now to make the advances necessary.'

 Dr Susanne Sorensen

Head of Research
Alzheimer's Society

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Notes to editors:

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia.
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In just 15 years 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 supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. 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