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Study Links Metabolic Syndrome to 70% Higher Risk of Early-Onset Dementia

Research involving nearly 2 million South Koreans highlights the cumulative impact of metabolic health on dementia risk before age 65, with stronger effects in women and younger individuals.

Blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol are among the conditions that may impact young dementia risk, study suggests.
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Researchers found each component of metabolic syndrome was associated with an increased risk of dementia, which was cumulative. Credit: Neuroscience News

Overview

  • A large-scale South Korean study found a 24% overall increased risk of young-onset dementia in individuals with metabolic syndrome, rising to 70% for those with all five components.
  • Metabolic syndrome includes central obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high triglycerides, and low HDL cholesterol, with risk increasing as more components are present.
  • Women with metabolic syndrome had a 34% higher risk of dementia compared to 15% in men, while individuals in their 40s faced greater risks than those in their 50s.
  • The study also identified subtype-specific risks, including a 12% increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease and 21% for vascular dementia.
  • While the observational study cannot prove causation, researchers emphasize early lifestyle interventions, such as diet and exercise, to mitigate potential risks.