What is a circadian rhythm and how does it affect dementia risk?

A circadian rhythm is your internal 24-hour body clock. Weaker, more irregular rhythms are linked to a higher risk of dementia.

Can sleep disruption increase dementia risk according to studies?

Yes, studies suggest that disrupted sleep patterns, often associated with weak circadian rhythms, may elevate dementia risk.

What is the specific risk increase for dementia with later circadian peaks?

Circadian rhythms peaking later in the day were associated with a 45% higher risk of developing dementia.

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Body Clock Chaos Linked to Higher Dementia Risk

5 Jan

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Summary

Weaker circadian rhythms increase dementia likelihood.
Later circadian rhythm peaks may raise risk by 45%.
Over 2,100 older adults were monitored for 3 years.

Body Clock Chaos Linked to Higher Dementia Risk

A significant study suggests that disruptions in our internal body clock, or circadian rhythm, may be a key factor in dementia risk. Researchers found that individuals with weaker and more irregular circadian rhythms, which govern sleep and activity patterns, demonstrated a substantially higher chance of developing dementia over a three-year period. This research analyzed data from over 2,100 older adults, tracking their daily rest and activity cycles.

The findings revealed that a pronounced irregularity in circadian rhythms nearly doubled the risk of dementia compared to those with strong, consistent rhythms. Furthermore, participants whose body clock activity peaked later in the day, specifically after 2:15 pm, faced a 45% increased risk of dementia compared to those with earlier peaks around 1:11 pm.

These disruptions could affect crucial bodily processes such as inflammation and sleep quality, potentially influencing the buildup of amyloid plaques in the brain, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. While changes in circadian rhythms are a natural part of aging, this study highlights their potential role as a modifiable risk factor for neurodegenerative conditions.