Geneva: Up to 45 per cent of dementia risk could be prevented or delayed by addressing modifiable risk factors such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, air pollution and physical inactivity, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Wednesday while releasing updated global guidance on dementia prevention.

The UN health agency said dementia remains the seventh leading cause of death worldwide and a major cause of disability and dependency among older adults. It emphasised that while there is currently no cure for the condition, preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of developing it.

Lifestyle changes can lower dementia risk

According to the WHO, nearly 45 per cent of dementia cases are linked to risk factors that can be modified through healthier lifestyle choices and better disease management.

These include:

  • Tobacco use
  • Harmful alcohol consumption
  • Physical inactivity
  • Social isolation
  • Air pollution
  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes
  • Other non-communicable diseases (NCDs)

The organisation said addressing these factors could delay or prevent the onset of dementia in a substantial number of people.

More than 57 million people affected worldwide

The WHO estimates that more than 57 million people are currently living with dementia across the globe, while nearly 10 million new cases are diagnosed every year.

Among the various forms of the condition, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common, accounting for an estimated 60 to 70 per cent of all dementia cases.

Dementia is caused by diseases affecting the brain and gradually impairs memory, thinking, behaviour and the ability to perform everyday activities.

Dementia is not an inevitable part of ageing

Although dementia is more common among people aged 65 years and above, the WHO stressed that it should not be regarded as a normal consequence of ageing.

The organisation said increasing awareness and encouraging early intervention can help reduce the future burden of the disease.

In the foreword to the updated guidance, Devora Kestel, Director of the WHO’s Department of Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health, highlighted the widespread impact of dementia.

“Behind these numbers are individuals, families, and communities navigating profound challenges that affect not only health, but dignity, independence, and well-being.”

She added that dementia is an issue that affects society as a whole rather than only older adults.

Updated guidance focuses on prevention

The WHO first issued recommendations on dementia prevention in 2019 but said growing scientific evidence has prompted an update to its guidance.

The revised recommendations are intended to help healthcare workers and policymakers promote early awareness, reduce risk factors and delay the onset of dementia.

WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said countries now have stronger evidence to guide preventive action.

He noted that protecting cognitive health through proven public health measures could significantly reduce future cases of dementia.

Managing chronic diseases is crucial

The updated guidance also recommends better management of chronic illnesses that are associated with a higher risk of dementia.

According to the WHO, effective control of conditions such as:

  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes
  • High cholesterol

can contribute to lowering dementia risk.

The organisation also recommends integrating services for non-communicable diseases, mental health and brain health to improve long-term outcomes.

For adults experiencing mild cognitive impairment, the WHO advises cognitive stimulation and training programmes as part of preventive care.

Huge economic and social burden

The WHO said dementia places a significant financial and emotional burden on families and healthcare systems worldwide.

It estimates that dementia costs the global economy around $1.3 trillion every year, with approximately half of that amount representing unpaid care provided by family members and friends.

The organisation said investing in dementia prevention can improve quality of life, help people remain independent for longer and reduce healthcare costs in the years ahead.

It urged governments, healthcare providers and individuals to prioritise healthy lifestyles and early management of risk factors, stressing that prevention remains the most effective strategy until widely accessible treatments become available.