The World Health Organization (WHO) has published new global recommendations for the prevention, early detection, and management of dementia, based on the latest scientific evidence. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
According to the organization, 45% of dementia cases can be prevented or delayed if risk factors are addressed in time. WHO reports that more than 57 million people worldwide are living with dementia, and this number continues to grow. The disease remains one of the leading causes of disability among the elderly.
14 Factors Increasing Dementia Risk
WHO identified 14 factors associated with an increased risk of dementia. These include: - High blood pressure - Diabetes - Obesity - Low physical activity - Smoking - Excessive alcohol consumption - Hearing loss - Vision loss - Depression - Traumatic brain injury - Air pollution - Social isolation - Low education level - High cholesterol
Importance of Early Prevention
It is also important how early a person starts prevention. The organization advises starting as early as possible — not only in old age but also in middle age. Dementia develops gradually, and lifestyle changes can reduce risk even in people with a genetic predisposition.
WHO recommends regular physical activity, monitoring blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy weight, timely treatment of hearing and vision impairments, and maintaining social and mental activity throughout life.
Situation in Kazakhstan
The population of many countries, including Kazakhstan, is gradually aging, and the number of elderly people is increasing. The aging index in Kazakhstan for 2025 was 32.9 people aged 65 and over per 100 children under 15. In the previous year, the index was 31.1. This means that the burden on the healthcare system due to dementia and Alzheimer's disease will increase.
Controlling blood pressure, diabetes, hearing, and other factors may become one of the most effective ways to prevent the disease known to date.
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