15 Surprising Factors Linked to Early Dementia, Study Finds

In a groundbreaking study published in JAMA Neurology, researchers from the University of Exeter and Maastricht University have uncovered 15 common risk factors for early-onset dementia, which occurs before the age of 65. The study, conducted in 2023, analyzed the behaviors of over 350,000 participants across the United Kingdom.

While some of the identified risk factors are out of people's control, such as genetic predisposition and socioeconomic status, the researchers found that many others can be managed through lifestyle changes. These include physical inactivity, poor diet, lack of cognitive stimulation, and social isolation.

Experts say the study's findings are particularly meaningful because it provides new insights into the development of young-onset dementia, a topic that has not been extensively researched in the past. "This study looks at young-onset dementia risk factors in a way that has only been done in late-onset dementias previously," explained Dr. Kevin Bickart, an assistant professor in neurology at the University of California Los Angeles Health's David Geffen School of Medicine.

The researchers hope that by raising awareness of these modifiable risk factors, individuals can take proactive steps to lower their chances of developing early-onset dementia. Experts recommend a combination of regular exercise, a Mediterranean-style diet, cognitive stimulation, and maintaining strong social connections as effective ways to reduce one's risk.