Researchers from Somerville, Mass.-based Mass General Brigham have identified 17 modifiable risk factors linked to stroke, dementia and late-life depression, according to a study published April 3 in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry.
Here are five things to know:
- The 17 risk factors shared by at least two of the diseases are: alcohol, blood pressure, body mass index, fasting plasma glucose, total cholesterol, leisure time cognitive activity, depressive symptoms, diet, hearing loss, kidney function, pain, physical activity, purpose in life, sleep, smoking, social engagement and stress.
- These factors are considered modifiable, meaning patients can reduce their risk of developing stroke, dementia and late-life depression with behavior modification.
- The factors were identified through meta-analysis of previously published research on the risk factors associated with stroke, dementia and late-life depression. Researchers then combined this data to identify modifiable risk factors shared by at least two of the three diseases.
- High blood pressure and severe kidney disease were found to have the biggest effect on the incidence and burden of stroke, dementia and late-life depression.
Physical activity and leisure time cognitive activity were associated with a lower disease risk. - Researchers said some of these associations may be “symptomatic rather than causal,” according to an April 3 news release from Mass General Brigham. They also emphasized “the need for more studies on modifiable risk factors of late-life depression.”
Read the full study here.
