Cognitive decline can begin from age 45, study reveals
Published 5 January 2012
Cognitive function can start to decline from the age of 45, according to a study published in the British Medical Journal.
Researchers in France and the UK looked at 5,198 men and 2,192 women aged between 45 and 70 over a 10-year period from 1997. Participants' cognitive functions including memory, vocabulary and aural and visual comprehension skills were assessed three times.
The study found there was a 3.6 per cent decline in mental reasoning in women and men aged 45-49.
Alzheimer's Society comment:
'This large, important study adds vital information to the debate over when cognitive decline begins. However, the study does not tell us whether any of these people went on to develop dementia, nor how feasible it would be for GPs to detect these early changes.'
'More research is now needed to help us fully understand how measurable changes in the brain can help us improve diagnosis of dementia. An early diagnosis is essential as it can provide access to support and potential treatments which can vastly improve people's quality of life.'
Dr Anne Corbett
Research Manager
Alzheimer's Society
Research Reference: Singh-Manoux et al, 'Timing of onset of cognitive decline', published in BMJ online, January 5 2012
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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 ten 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
- Alzheimer's Society and Tesco have mapped the number of people with dementia in each part of the UK and the percentage who receive a diagnosis. To view the 'Mapping the Dementia Gap' study visit alzheimers-tesco.org.uk
