Possible risks of dementia

Behavioural risk factors

Some habits or behaviours can be associated with dementia, such as not getting enough sleep or taking caffeinated drinks. But more research is needed to properly understand the connection. 

• Sleep
• Caffeine

Medical risk factors

Research has shown a link between dementia and infections like herpes and pneumonia. But more research is needed to see if infections contribute to the development of dementia.

There is also not enough evidence to say that general anaesthetics increase a person’s risk of developing dementia.

• Infections
• General anaesthetic

Environmental risk factors

There is no strong evidence to suggest that exposure to metals like copper, zinc, iron and aluminium increases a person’s risk of dementia.

• Metals