New research reveals vision loss, high cholesterol are risk factors for dementia

New research has uncovered two health factors that, if addressed, could significantly lower the risk of developing dementia.

By targeting these issues, nearly half of all dementia cases might be prevented or delayed, according to research published by the 2024 Lancet Commission on dementia prevention, intervention, and care.

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Released late last month, the study identified untreated vision loss and high cholesterol as conditions that increase the risk of developing dementia. With these additions, there are now 14 “potentially modifiable” risk factors for dementia. Other risks include lower education levels, hearing impairment, high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, depression, physical inactivity, diabetes, excessive alcohol consumption, traumatic brain injury, air pollution, and social isolation.

Dr. Eric B. Larson, a researcher with the University of Washington School of Medicine and one of the co-authors of the study, emphasized the importance of addressing these risk factors. Specifically, Larson pointed out that lowering high LDL cholesterol (often referred to as “bad cholesterol”) in midlife could help reduce dementia risk. He also highlighted research from ophthalmologist Dr. Cecilia Lee at the UW School of Medicine, which found that individuals who underwent cataract surgery were less likely to develop dementia compared to those who did not have the procedure.

The research demonstrated how cognitive and physical growth over a person's life can impact their risk of dementia. It also suggests reducing vascular damage — by addressing issues like smoking and high blood pressure — has likely helped lower dementia rates among older adults.

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Larson said the latest Lancet Commission report included insights from experts in low- and middle-income countries, offering a broader international perspective.

“The first two reports primarily focused on high-income countries in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. This report now includes low and middle-income countries, where many people are living to old age,” he said.

The report highlighted the idea that if the 14 modifiable risk factors can be targeted, people could have up to a 45% reduction in the risk of dementia in their lifetime.

“The strongest statement that I think comes out in the report is the one of the main messages: be ambitious about prevention,” Larson said.