A group of Dutch and British researchers investigated which factors are associated with an increased risk of developing early-onset dementia. They analyzed data from over 356,000 study participants recorded in the UK Biobank, a large-scale longitudinal study in Great Britain.
If the first symptoms of dementia appear in people under 65, it is referred to as Young Onset Dementia (YOD). A group of Dutch and British researchers wanted to find out if there are risk factors associated with early onset dementia. To anticipate the study results: Several risk factors, most of which are modifiable, are linked to a higher risk of developing early onset dementia.
In total, the researchers were able to identify 15 factors that are statistically proven to be associated with an increased risk of developing dementia at a „younger age,“ meaning before the age of 65. The risk factors were categorized as sociodemographic factors, genetic factors, lifestyle factors, environmental factors, blood marker factors, factors affecting the cardiovascular system and/or metabolic processes, psychiatric factors, and other factors.
Lower educational attainment, social isolation, vitamin D deficiency
Accordingly, risk factors include a lower level of education and a lower socioeconomic status. The study, published in the renowned specialist journal JAMA in February 2024, also names alcohol abuse, social isolation, and vitamin D deficiency as further risk factors, as well as hearing impairments, stroke, diabetes, and depression.
In contrast, moderate alcohol consumption, higher education, and less physical frailty were associated with a lower risk of developing early-onset dementia.
Incorporating modifiable risk factors into dementia prevention
Most of the risk factors, the study states, are modifiable. The research group therefore reaches a clear conclusion: „These modifiable risk factors should be included in future dementia prevention initiatives and open up new therapeutic possibilities for Young Onset Dementia.“
For the study, the research group analyzed data from over 356,000 study participants recorded in the so-called UK Biobank, a large-scale longitudinal study in Great Britain. All participants were under 65 years of age and had not been diagnosed with dementia. 55.3 percent were women, and the average age was 54.6 years.
Tip for practicePrevention pays off. Address your personal modifiable risk factors, such as hearing loss or social isolation, and try to make an improvement in your daily life.
Here's the study: (Title is linked)
