Alzheimer's Society comment on study claiming Vitamin E could reduce risk of developing dementia

The research published in the Journal of Alzheimer's disease today (Monday 5 July 2010) claims people with high levels of several Vitamin E compounds have a 45-54 per cent lower risk of developing dementia.

The study conducted at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm looked at the Vitamin E levels of 232 people without dementia aged 80 or over. They then carried out follow up studies six years later. They found 57 of the participants had developed dementia.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'This study is interesting but should be treated with caution as it uses a small sample group observed over a relatively short time scale making it difficult to generalise the findings. Clinical trials already exist suggesting Vitamin E has no obvious benefits for reducing risk of dementia. While this latest work looks at different natural Vitamin E components, it will require back up from much more robust research if it is to disprove these earlier findings.'

'This week, Dementia Awareness Week, Alzheimer's Society is asking people to Remember the Person behind the diagnosis. This includes reminding people that what is good for your heart is generally good for your head. Eating a healthy diet and doing regular exercise could reduce the risk of developing dementia by up to 60 per cent.'

Professor Clive Ballard
Director of Research
Alzheimer's Society

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Study reference: 'High plasma levels of Vitamin E forms and reduced Alzheimer's disease risk in advanced age', Francesca Mangialasche et al. Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, 5 July 2010

Notes to editors:

• Dementia Awareness Week is running from 4-10 July 2010. This year, the biggest week in Alzheimer's Society's calendar has the theme Remember the Person.
• 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