Dementia research sees promising data after risk reduction strategies

This is the web version of STAT’s AAIC in 30 newsletter. Sign up to get it delivered to your inbox.

Hello from the second day of AAIC. The Alzheimer’s Association’s international conference could attract 10,200 participants from 115 countries, an increase of 1,700 from last year, the association’s Maria Carrillo announced during Monday’s plenary session. But my favorite person is the woman I saw napping on a bench in the hallway wearing a sun hat. you are a source of inspiration.

Administrative note: Due to the whims of our newsletter schedule, there will not be an edition tomorrow, but a summary edition will be back in your inbox on Wednesday. But stay tuned to statnews.com tomorrow and expect conference news around 9:15 a.m. ET.

Latin American research hailed as ‘groundbreaking’ initiative

For a disease that, like Alzheimer’s disease, has proven difficult to treat, it has been known for some time what factors can increase the risk of dementia. Poor nutrition, sleep, and cardiovascular health. Lack of physical activity and social engagement. And the lower your education level, the more likely you are to develop Alzheimer’s disease.

Research reported at last year’s AAIC tested interventions designed to reduce risk. The US Pointer study found that an intensive, structured program that encouraged improved diet and exercise, monitoring of cardiovascular health, and other measures was more effective at protecting cognitive function in older adults at high risk for dementia than a lower-intensity program that participants completed on their own, even though both groups saw benefits. This study highlighted that healthy habits contribute to a healthy brain.

STAT+ exclusive story