Is dementia an unavoidable consequence of ageing, according to WHO?

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Dementia is not an unavoidable consequence of ageing, according to the World Health Organisation.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has stated that dementia is not an inevitable part of the ageing process. While the condition becomes more common in individuals over the age of 65, it is not an unavoidable outcome of growing older.
Modifiable Risk Factors Identified

The WHO highlights that a significant portion of dementia risk, up to 45 per cent, can be prevented or delayed. This is attributed to a range of modifiable risk factors, including the use of tobacco, alcohol consumption, social isolation, physical inactivity, and exposure to air pollution. Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as high blood pressure and diabetes also contribute to this risk.
Global Impact and Scale of Dementia

Globally, dementia affects over 57 million people, with nearly 10 million new diagnoses occurring each year. Alzheimer's disease is the most prevalent form, accounting for an estimated 60 to 70 per cent of all dementia cases. The impact extends beyond health, affecting individuals' dignity, independence, and overall well-being, presenting profound challenges for those affected and their communities.
Prevention as the Most Effective Strategy

Given that there is currently no cure for dementia or widely accessible treatment, the WHO emphasises that prevention is the most effective strategy to mitigate its incidence. The organisation's updated guidance for health workers and policymakers focuses on promoting early awareness and intervention. This includes suggestions such as cognitive stimulation and training for adults experiencing mild cognitive impairment, and improved management of conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol.

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Is dementia an unavoidable consequence of ageing, according to WHO?

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