HEALTH officials should run an "it's never too late" campaign to make the public aware of lifestyle changes they could make to help stave off dementia, a new report suggests.
A number of factors can increase a person's risk of dementia in later life and people should be encouraged to take steps to protect themselves, according to the report commissioned by Alzheimer's Disease International, a body representing dozens of organisations from around the world.
The report authors, led by Professor Martin Prince from King's College London, said that low education in early life, high blood pressure in midlife, and smoking and diabetes across the whole life can increase a person's risk of developing dementia.
They wrote: "There is persuasive evidence that the dementia risk for populations can be modified through reduction in tobacco use and better control and detection for hypertension and diabetes, as well as cardiovascular risk factors.
"A good mantra is 'What is good for your heart is good for your brain'.
"Brain health promotion messages should be integrated in public health promotion campaigns such as anti-tobacco or non-communicable disease awareness campaigns, with the message that it's never too late to make these changes.
"If we can all enter old age with better developed, healthier brains we are likely to live longer, happier and more independent lives with a much reduced chance of developing dementia."
A survey by healthcare provider Bupa, conducted on 8,500 people from six countries including 2,500 from the UK, also shows that many are unclear what steps they can take to reduce their risk of developing the condition.
Dr Eric Karran, director of research at charity Alzheimer's Research UK, said: "Although there is currently no certain way to prevent dementia, this report underlines strong evidence suggesting we can lower our risk by adopting a healthy lifestyle."
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