In an interview with “Al Khaleej Al Tibbi”; Medical Section of Akhbar Al Khaleej Newspaper, Dr Mohammed Binfalah, Consultant Neurologist at the University Medical Centre at the King Abdullah Medical City, stated that unhealthy lifestyle choices, hearing impairment and brain injuries are significant factors increasing the risk of developing dementia. He noted that the global population of elderly individuals is rising, including those living with dementia, while mortality rates among younger age groups are decreasing, emphasising that the incidence of dementia among older adults has declined in many countries, likely due to improvements in education, nutrition, healthcare and lifestyle changes.

Dr Mohammed bin Falah further said: “In general, there are several potential factors that increase the risk of developing dementia, as highlighted by the Lancet Commission’s 2017 guidelines for dementia prevention and the World Health Organisation’s 2019 recommendations. These factors include low education levels, high blood pressure, hearing impairment, smoking, obesity, depression, physical inactivity, diabetes, reduced social interaction, excessive alcohol consumption, brain injuries, air pollution, poor nutrition, lack of cognitive activities and sleep-related issues. Collectively, these factors account for approximately 40% of dementia cases worldwide and theoretically can be prevented or delayed.”

1. Early Childhood Education: Attaining higher educational levels during early childhood can build cognitive reserves and diminish the risk of dementia.

2. High Blood Pressure: Managing high blood pressure to prevent brain damage that could contribute to the onset of dementia.

3. Hearing Loss: Addressing hearing loss in midlife to lessen the chances of cognitive decline.

4. Smoking: Quitting smoking at any age, as it remains a significant risk factor for cognitive impairment.

5. Obesity: Preventing and managing obesity during midlife through dietary practices, exercise and medical intervention.

6. Depression: Recognising and treating depression as a modifiable risk factor for dementia.

7. Physical Inactivity: Engaging in regular physical activity. Aerobic exercises, strength training and balance workouts are recommended to maintain mental health and overall well-being.

8. Diabetes: Effectively managing diabetes to mitigate its contribution to cognitive decline.

9. Social Isolation: Combating social isolation, particularly among older adults, and remaining socially active through community engagement and nurturing social relationships.

10. Alcohol: Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, as it correlates with an elevated risk of dementia.

11. Brain Injuries: Preventing brain injuries early in life can help reduce the risk of dementia later on.

12. Air Pollution: Minimising exposure to air pollution, as emerging evidence indicates it may be linked to an increased risk of dementia.

13. Diet: Following a healthy diet similar to the Mediterranean model, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds and fish, while reducing the intake of saturated fats, refined carbohydrates and sugars.

14. Cognitive Training: Engaging in cognitive training and mental exercises to enhance memory, thinking abilities and other cognitive skills, while encouraging activities such as reading, solving puzzles and practicing memory exercises.

These guidelines highlight the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, preserving cardiovascular health and building robust cognitive abilities throughout life. By focusing on these risk factors across different life stages and adopting a comprehensive approach, we can significantly reduce the global burden of dementia.