They all share common risk factors.
A new study reveals that stroke, dementia, and late-life depression share several lifestyle-related risk factors, and making positive changes in these areas can help reduce the likelihood of developing all three conditions. Published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry, the research emphasizes that improving key aspects of daily life—such as managing blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol, along with maintaining healthy sleep patterns and reducing stress—can significantly lower the risk of these age-related brain disorders.
The research team, led by scientists from the Brain Care Labs at Massachusetts General Hospital, identified 17 modifiable risk factors that contribute to the onset of stroke, dementia, or late-life depression. These include both physical health indicators like obesity and kidney disease, and lifestyle choices such as alcohol use, smoking, diet, physical activity, and social engagement. According to senior researcher Dr. Sanjula Singh, individuals can take numerous proactive steps to protect their brain health as they age.
To reach these findings, the researchers analyzed data from 59 previous studies focusing on brain health and its risk factors. They determined which risk factors were linked to at least two of the three conditions and assessed their impact on life expectancy and overall quality of life. High blood pressure and advanced kidney disease were found to be among the most influential in increasing the risk of all three conditions.
The team also highlighted how factors like hearing loss, chronic pain, lack of purpose, and low participation in leisure activities—such as puzzles and games—could increase vulnerability to cognitive and emotional decline. Encouragingly, boosting social interaction, reducing harmful habits, and staying mentally engaged were all associated with improved brain outcomes.
With these insights, researchers aim to refine a tool called the Brain Care Score, which helps individuals and healthcare providers track and enhance efforts to preserve brain function. As Dr. Jonathan Rosand, chair of neurology at MGH, pointed out, despite the complexity of healthcare, disease prevention often boils down to simple, consistent habits—especially since so many chronic conditions share common roots.
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