Fluctuating Cholesterol Levels Found to Increase Dementia Risk in Seniors

A study links year-to-year cholesterol variability to a 60% higher likelihood of dementia, suggesting it could serve as a predictive biomarker.

Research involving nearly 10,000 participants aged 65 and older found a strong association between fluctuating cholesterol levels and increased dementia risk.
Those with the greatest variability in total and LDL cholesterol levels were 60% more likely to develop dementia compared to those with stable levels.
Fluctuating cholesterol was linked to faster declines in memory, processing speed, and overall cognitive function, independent of baseline cholesterol levels.
Possible mechanisms include damage to brain blood vessels or broader physiological instability in older adults, though causation was not proven.
Experts recommend monitoring cholesterol changes in seniors and considering interventions, such as lifestyle adjustments or consistent statin use, to mitigate risk.