Treat Gum Disease, Cut Dementia Risk by a Third

Treating common diseases not directly affecting the brain, such as gum disease and diabetes, could potentially reduce dementia cases by about a third. Chinese researchers have identified 16 peripheral diseases, including gum, liver, and heart conditions, as well as type 2 diabetes and COPD, that are associated with an increased risk of developing dementia. These findings build upon earlier knowledge linking hearing and vision loss to Alzheimer's disease.

The study, published in Nature Human Behaviour, analyzed data from over 200 research studies. It found that 16 of 26 diseases examined were linked to a higher risk of dementia, accounting for an estimated 18.8 million cases globally. Gum disease, chronic liver disease, hearing and vision loss, and type 2 diabetes were highlighted as carrying the highest risks. While causality is not yet proven, early treatment of these conditions could prevent many dementia cases.

Experts emphasize that identifying risk factors is insufficient; preserving peripheral organ health is now considered crucial for brain health. They advocate for public health policies that proactively manage conditions like diabetes and promote oral health through education and dental check-ups. Recommendations also include expanding hepatitis B vaccination and raising awareness about the liver health risks of alcohol consumption. These interventions are considered feasible, cost-effective, and scalable through existing systems.

The research aligns with a broader consensus that millions of dementia cases could be prevented through lifestyle changes. The 2024 Lancet Commission indicated that nearly half of all Alzheimer's cases might be preventable, highlighting factors like untreated hearing and vision loss, inactivity, and air pollution. In the UK, dementia affects around 900,000 people, a number projected to rise significantly, and it is the leading cause of death.