Dementia prevention guidance focuses on modifiable risks

New WHO guidance on dementia emphasizes the potential to reduce risk across the life course through health services and changes in everyday environments.

The guidance draws attention to factors including physical inactivity, smoking, harmful alcohol use, social isolation, hearing loss and cardiovascular risks. It also considers environmental exposure, including air pollution.

The estimate that up to 45 percent of dementia could potentially be prevented or delayed refers to modifiable risks at population level. It does not mean every individual case is preventable. The recommendations connect prevention with better access to assessment and continuing care, rather than promising a cure.