This finding—which was made by an exceptional team of researchers led by Sanjula Singh—has groundbreaking implications. Specifically, they calculated the influence of 17 modifiable risk factors on reducing the risk of stroke, dementia and late-life depression. This study performs a comprehensive re-analysis of 59 meta-analyses. Its ultimate goal is to transform the way we perceive these conditions, moving society away from viewing them as distinct and unavoidable to understanding their interconnectedness and preventability.
According to the study’s results, among the most poignant risk factors were numerous *lifestyle choices*, such as smoking tobacco and drinking alcohol. They further cite evidence of chronic health conditions—including high blood pressure and high cholesterol. By managing these factors, individuals may reduce their risk of cognitive decline and mental health issues in their later years.
The Key Risk Factors Identified
The 17 modifiable risk factors the study found are not only extensive – they’re also quite detailed. They encompass both physical and psychological elements, including:
- Alcohol consumption
- Blood pressure
- Body mass index (BMI)
- Fasting plasma glucose levels
- Total cholesterol
- Cognitive activity during leisure time
- Depressive symptoms
- Diet
- Hearing loss
- Kidney function
- Pain
- Physical activity
- Sense of purpose in life
- Sleep quality
- Smoking
- Social engagement
- Stress levels
Among these, high blood pressure is the clear leader as the biggest risk factor. Sanjula Singh emphasizes its importance, stating that “high blood pressure is the strongest and most consistent risk factor across stroke, dementia, and late-life depression.” Singh urges all Americans to make controlling their high blood pressure the first and most important step to enhancing their brain health.
“We recommend that adults check their blood pressure regularly, starting as early as their 20s, and talk to their doctor if it’s elevated,” – Sanjula Singh, MD, PhD, MSc
This emphasizes the need to consider how genetic predispositions can manifest for certain conditions. There are effective treatments that, combined with community-wide lifestyle changes, can reduce their impact. For example, when medications are available to help control high cholesterol or diabetes, those conditions become easier to manage for millions of people.
Interconnectedness of Risk Factors
Singh’s research underscores the interconnectedness of these risk factors. High blood pressure plays a role in other health problems. By addressing this one sector, it holds the potential to score wins in dozens of other sectors.
“You don’t have to address them all at once, and many are interconnected,” Singh notes. “For example, becoming more active may help improve sleep or lower blood pressure.”
This web of interconnectivity paints a very clear picture that we cannot manage health in a siloed, fragmented way. By addressing risk factors through lifestyle changes that improve overall well-being, people can more easily target several risk factors at once.
“The key is to start somewhere—and know that progress in one area can often support progress in others,” – Sanjula Singh, MD, PhD, MSc
This strategic approach gives you the tools to feel confident and in command of your power. It makes the seemingly impossible challenge of juggling various priorities fully doable.
Implications for Public Health
These findings have significant social justice implications that go beyond individual health. Douglas Scharre, MD, a professor of clinical neurology and psychiatry at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, is quick to stress that understanding modifiable risk factors is essential. Such knowledge is critical for efficient and effective public health efforts aimed at minimizing the prevalence of stroke, dementia, and late-life depression.
“Alcohol can cause a dementia condition and destroy brain cells, particularly in the memory circuits at times,” Scharre explains. To that end, he urges people to be more aware of the lifestyle factors they can control that lead to cognitive decline.
Additionally, Singh’s work tries to bring prevention down to earth and put it within reach for the general public and primary care providers alike. Healthcare providers might be more likely to focus on certain risk factors. This better equips them to develop treatment strategies that target not only psychosocial wellness, but physical health as well.
“Hearing about multiple risk factors can feel overwhelming, but our goal is to make prevention feel accessible and actionable,” – Sanjula Singh, MD, PhD, MSc
This preventative focus gives people the tools they need to improve and maintain their health. It encourages them to pursue preventive care and screenings from medical professionals.
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