High levels of ‘good’ cholesterol could lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease, study claims

US researchers studied 1,130 older adults to explore the links between fat levels in the blood and Alzheimer's disease. Higher levels of HDL cholesterol were linked with a decreased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, even when allowing for vascular dementia risk factors and treatments to lower blood fat levels.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'This large study links 'good' cholesterol (HDL) with a lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. This is interesting because until now, researchers have focused on the associations between 'good' cholesterol and vascular dementia. The best way to reduce your risk of dementia is to get your blood pressure and cholesterol checked, eat a healthy Mediterranean-style diet and watch your weight.'

'More research is now needed to fully understand the link between HDL cholesterol and the processes that lead to Alzheimer's disease.  Yet the government invests eight times less in dementia research than cancer research. If we want to see the same advancements in dementia care as we have for cancer we must invest more.'

Dr Susanne Sorensen
Head of Research
Alzheimer's Society

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Research Reference:  'Association of Higher Levels of High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol in Elderly Individuals and Lower Risk of Late-Onset Alzheimer Disease', by Christiane Reitz et al, in Archives of Neurology, December 2010.

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