A comprehensive study led by the University of Exeter and Maastricht University has identified a range of risk factors associated with young-onset dementia, challenging the notion that genetics alone drive the condition. The research, published in JAMA Neurology, suggests that targeting health and lifestyle factors may offer avenues for reducing the risk of young-onset dementia.Â
Globally, approximately 370,000 new cases of young-onset dementia are reported each year. The study, conducted as part of the UK Biobank study, followed over 350,000 participants under the age of 65 in the United Kingdom. The researchers examined various risk factors, including genetic predispositions, lifestyle choices, and environmental influences.Â
The study unveiled 15 risk factors for young-onset dementia, like those associated with late-onset dementia. The findings challenge the prevailing belief that genetics is the primary cause of young-onset dementia, opening possibilities for preventative strategies. Lower formal education, lower socioeconomic status, genetic variations, lifestyle factors such as alcohol use disorder and social isolation, and health issues such as vitamin D deficiency, depression, stroke, hearing impairment, and heart disease were identified as significant risk factors.Â
Professor David Llewellyn of the University of Exeter emphasized the breakthrough nature of the study, highlighting the crucial role of international collaboration and big data in advancing dementia research. The findings suggest that action may be taken to reduce the risk of young-onset dementia by addressing a range of factors.Â
Dr. Stevie Hendriks from Maastricht University highlighted the serious impact of young-onset dementia on individuals who often still have jobs, children, and active lives. The study aimed to investigate risk factors beyond assumed genetic causes.Â
Sebastian Köhler, Professor of Neuroepidemiology at Maastricht University, noted that previous research on older individuals with dementia highlighted modifiable risk factors, including physical and mental health aspects such as avoiding chronic stress, loneliness, and depression. The surprising discovery that these factors also play a role in young-onset dementia suggests potential opportunities to reduce risk in this population.Â
Dr. Janice Ranson, Senior Research Fellow at the University of Exeter, commented on the groundbreaking nature of the research, indicating that the identification of modifiable risk factors could usher in a new era of interventions to reduce new cases of young-onset dementia.Â
Dr. Leah Mursaleen, Head of Clinical Research at Alzheimer’s Research UK, emphasized the transformative shift in understanding dementia risk and potential risk reduction on individual and societal levels. The study contributes valuable insights into factors influencing the risk of young-onset dementia, filling a critical gap in knowledge.Â
The study aligns with the growing consensus that dementia is linked to modifiable risk factors, including smoking, blood pressure, and hearing loss. The findings underscore the importance of building on this research in broader studies to advance understanding and develop effective interventions.Â
The study identifies and explores 15 risk factors for young-onset dementia, challenging the perception that genetics is the sole driver of the condition. The potential to address modifiable risk factors offers hope for reducing the incidence of young-onset dementia and highlights the importance of ongoing research in this field.Â
Journal Reference Â
Risk Factors for Young-Onset Dementia in the UK Biobank, JAMA Neurology (2023). DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2023.4929. Â
