Scientists have named diseases that increase the risk of dementia

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According to a new study, the prevention of mental disorders in young people can reduce or delay the burden of dementia in old age. This opinion was expressed by researchers from the University of Michigan, Duke University and Oakland University.

Their study of 1.7 million New Zealanders lasted 30 years. Ages at the start of the study ranged from 21 to 60.

“A lot of research in geriatrics focuses on physical disease and ignores mental health,” says Leah Richmond-Ruckerd, associate professor of psychology at the University of Michigan and lead author. study.

Among the results, the scientists highlighted:

• Mental disorders were more closely associated with dementia than chronic somatic diseases.
• The connection the association between mental health problems and dementia was not explained by previous chronic medical conditions or socioeconomic problems.
• The association between mental health problems and dementia was observed in both men and women, as well as in different types of mental illnesses.

Richmond-Ruckerd notes that mental disorders can be considered as an early sign of further dementia. Researchers note that people with mental disorders should be encouraged to lead a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of developing dementia.