Dementia is a degenerative condition that impacts the brain, causing symptoms such as memory loss, confusion and speech difficulties. While certain forms may be influenced by genetics, lifestyle choices can also significantly affect your chances of developing this neurological disorder.
Experts from Dementia UK have pinpointed several scientifically-backed methods to lower your risk of the condition, including one unexpected element that’s probably not on most people’s minds: air pollution. Research suggests that extended exposure to heavily polluted air may heighten the likelihood of developing dementia, along with other health complications affecting the lungs and heart. Those with wood-burning stoves and open fires within or close to their properties could be especially vulnerable to this risk.
To help minimise this danger, the specialists advised: “At home, you can reduce air pollution by avoiding using wood-burning stoves and open fires.”
Wood-burning stoves remain permissible in the UK, though they’re now governed by stringent regulations. Recent research from University College London discovered that burning wood indoors might cause harm comparable to cigarette smoking.
Controlling air quality beyond your home can prove more challenging, yet even minor adjustments while driving or walking can have a substantial impact.
The experts added: “In the car, keep your windows closed, especially on busy roads and in slow-moving traffic. If you exercise regularly outdoors, you can limit your exposure by using routes where there is less traffic or going out earlier in the day when the roads are quieter.”
Physical activity undertaken on a regular basis is a widely recognised strategy for individuals seeking to reduce their chances of developing dementia, cardiovascular disease, type two diabetes and various other health conditions.
The NHS advises achieving a combined total of 150 minutes weekly through pursuits such as walking/hiking, yoga, swimming, running, cycling, fitness classes and team sports.
Contaminated air may heighten dementia risk by sparking inflammation in the brain and oxidative stress while potentially harming the heart and blood vessels, which could diminish blood circulation to the brain.
Should pollution particles succeed in escaping the bloodstream and entering the brain, this can also disrupt the brain’s capacity to eliminate waste, resulting in an accumulation of proteins recognised as being connected to Alzheimer’s. Smoking has a similar impact, as it has been associated with dementia progression and can harm the heart and blood vessels.
Dementia UK specialists noted: “If you smoke, it is important to try to stop. Your GP can tell you what support is available, and there is advice on the NHS website, including a free ‘Quit smoking’ app.”
The link between air pollution and dementia is still under investigation, but a recent study discovered that dogs residing in cities with high levels of air pollution exhibited a consistent accumulation of pollutants from their nasal passages to their frontal cortex. This implies that the nose could be a gateway for these pollutants.
The study identified pollutants such as Nitrogen Dioxide as potential risk factors for dementia. The researchers advocated for policy changes to tackle air pollution, which could potentially alleviate the global impact of dementia.