Study presented at Diabetes UK has identified two possible factors that affect the likelihood of a person with high blood sugar developing dementia.
“A study in people with diabetes highlights that while it's never too late to take action, middle age (typically 45 to 64) is very important in reducing the risk of developing dementia,” the report says.
Physicians note that the presence of type 2 diabetes is already a risk factor for the development of dementia, since this disease affects blood vessels and capillaries. High blood pressure and high cholesterol levels further increase the risk.
Scientists in a large, multi-year study analyzed data from 227,580 people with type 2 diabetes over 42 years of age. About 10 percent of them developed dementia.
The results showed that changes in blood pressure differed between those who developed dementia and those who did not. People with higher blood pressure were more likely to develop dementia at a fairly early age.
It was also found that blood sugar and cholesterol levels were generally higher in people with type 2 diabetes who subsequently developed dementia .
“Our results highlight the importance of carefully monitoring cardiometabolic factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose levels early in people with type 2 diabetes. Regular check-ups and comprehensive treatment of potential risk factors can help reduce the risk of developing dementia, the doctors noted.
Although the study cannot confirm causation, the results suggest that blood pressure and other cardiometabolic factors may contribute to the development of dementia two decades before diagnosis.
Another interesting finding was that between 11 and 19 years before the diagnosis of dementia, blood pressure readings dropped dramatically. In addition, a group of diabetics who later developed dementia experienced a decrease in body weight 11 years prior to diagnosis.
It is clarified that these changes may be the result of dementia itself due to gradual changes in behavior, including diet , reduced calorie intake and physical activity.
The results of the study highlight the importance of keeping blood pressure and blood sugar and cholesterol under control to reduce the risk of dementia. alcohol and not smoking.
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