The World Health Organisation (WHO) has released updated guidelines stating that up to 45 per cent of dementia risk is linked to modifiable factors, meaning many cases could be prevented or delayed through healthier lifestyles and better management of medical conditions. The announcement was made in a statement on Wednesday. According to WHO, more than 57 million people are living with dementia worldwide, with nearly 10 million new cases diagnosed each year. Alzheimer's disease accounts for an estimated 60 to 70 per cent of all dementia cases globally.
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus said the guidelines translate scientific knowledge into practical actions countries can implement to protect brain health. He recommended that adults with normal cognition or mild cognitive impairment engage in cognitive training, mental stimulation and regular social activities. Physical activity, quitting tobacco, reducing alcohol consumption, following a healthy diet and limiting exposure to air pollution are also advised to lower risk.
Effective management of hypertension, diabetes and high cholesterol can reduce the likelihood of developing dementia later in life. Hearing aids may be offered as part of risk-reduction strategies for people with hearing loss. The guidelines advise against routine use of vitamin B, vitamin E, omega-3 fatty acids or multivitamin supplements for dementia prevention where no deficiency has been diagnosed, as current evidence does not show sufficient benefits and potential harms cannot be ruled out.
Dementia affects memory, thinking, daily functioning and independence, placing emotional, social and financial burdens on families and caregivers. WHO estimates the global cost of dementia at 1.3 trillion dollars annually, with about half of the economic burden coming from unpaid care by relatives and friends.
Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus promotes lifestyle changes as key to reducing dementia risk, yet his recommendations rely on healthcare access and education systems not uniformly available in low-income countries where WHO operates. Many of the advised interventions, such as hearing aids and regular health monitoring, remain out of reach for millions of Africans facing rising dementia rates. Without addressing infrastructure gaps, the guidelines risk sounding aspirational rather than actionable for the populations most in need.
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