Brain Changes and Lifestyle Factors Flag Higher Dementia Risk

Scientists from Shandong First Medical University and the Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences identified alterations in the brain's choroid plexus that may predict future dementia, especially Alzheimer's disease. An analysis of more than 45,000 UK Biobank participants showed that a larger choroid plexus or reduced MRI signal intensity was associated with a markedly increased chance of developing dementia and greater brain shrinkage over time.

Separately, research from Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Massachusetts highlighted that many modifiable risk factors overlap for stroke, dementia and depression. Among the most influential, uncontrolled high blood pressure triples the risk of stroke and significantly raises dementia risk. Experts stress that early lifestyle interventions—such as maintaining a low‑salt diet, regular exercise and a balanced intake of vegetables, fruit and fish—can reduce the likelihood of all three conditions.

These findings underscore the importance of both early biological markers and preventive health measures in tackling the growing burden of dementia worldwide.