Smoking is defined as the consumption of nicotine-containing tobacco plants in the form of cigarettes, cigarillos, or cigars.
Why is smoking a risk factor for dementia?
| Background | Increased Risk of Dementia: Smoking is a significant risk factor for the development of dementia. |
| Mechanisms: | Smoking increases the risk of plaque buildup in the blood vessels (atherosclerosis) and can therefore impair blood flow to the brain. |
Peters, R., Poulter, R., Warner, J., Beckett, N., Burch, L., & Bulpitt, C. (2008). Smoking, dementia and cognitive decline in the elderly, a systematic review. BMC geriatrics, 8, 1-7. 10.1186/1471-2318-8-36
https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/managing-the-risk-of-dementia/risk-factors-for-dementia
What can I do?
- Talk to your family doctor and/or pharmacist about different methods for quitting smoking..
- Objective: Use a specific date or event as motivation, such as a New Year's resolution.
- Seek psychosocial support. For example, ask your health insurance provider about (online) smoking cessation courses.
- If you want to cut back on your tobacco use but not quit entirely, consider using nicotine replacement therapy ,such as nicotine patches or sprays—to help you. E-cigarettes are not a suitable alternative.
