Dementia risk factors and prevention

Air pollution has been a focus of several studies on cognitive impairment and dementia risk. There is evidence that tiny air pollution particles can enter the brain, but at this time we can’t say if they play a role in the development of dementia. There is a strong case for further research into the effect of air pollution on brain health.

Alcohol consumption in excess has well-documented negative effects on both short- and long-term health, one of which is brain damage that can lead to Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia.

There are different types of antioxidant, each of which has a slightly different role. We explain the general term 'antioxidants' and provide guidance around their potential benefits in relation to dementia.

Brain training includes activities to challenge the brain, such as crosswords, Sudoku puzzles and bespoke computer games. Here we discuss the evidence and the claims made by commercial game providers.

We explore the effect of caffeine, and by extension coffee, to establish whether there is a link between this and developing dementia.

Research suggests a possible connection between high cholesterol and dementia.

Though studies have been done on the possibility of cinnamon preventing dementia, clinical trials are needed to assess its effect on people with dementia. Cinnamon is not recommended as a prevention or treatment for Alzheimer's disease or dementia as it can be toxic. Some of the extracts of cinnamon may warrant investigation to try and establish new treatments.

Complications with research means it is not clear whether general anaesthetics are known to increase dementia risk. Anyone who is going to have surgery should talk to their doctor first about the possible risks and benefits.

The genetics behind Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia is complex, and DNA testing kits like 23andme cannot tell the complete story about a person's risk of developing the condition.

Some research does suggest traumatic brain injuries may increase the risk of dementia. However, there is still much more research to be done to understand this complex issue, particularly in relation to contact sports like football (soccer) and rugby.

A lifelong approach to good health is the best way to lower your risk of dementia. Learn more about the effects of high blood pressure and the risk factors of dementia.

Dementia affects more women than men and it is thought that hormones may play a role in this. Some research suggests that hormone replacement therapy, used to help with symptoms of menopause, may reduce dementia risk in women – though other studies say opposite.

Several infections have been suggested to increase risk of Alzheimer's disease, but the evidence behind it is not clear cut. 

The ability of metals from food or cookware to cause Alzheimer's disease is a regular concern in the news. Here's the evidence behind the presence of metals such as copper, zinc, iron and aluminium.

Of all the lifestyle changes that have been studied, taking regular physical exercise appears to be one of the best things that you can do to reduce your risk of getting dementia.

People with dementia often have issues with sleep with their memory seemingly worse after a bad night. However, the evidence is unclear on whether poor sleep is a risk factor for dementia.

There is strong evidence that smoking can increase your risk of dementia. Not everyone who smokes will get dementia, but stopping smoking is thought to reduce your risk down to the level of non-smokers.