British public ‘do not recognise risk factors for dementia’

A new Public Health England report has indicated a lack of awareness among members of the public about risk factors associated with dementia.

Data from the British Social Attitudes survey showed that 28 percent of the British public is unable to correctly identify any potentially modifiable risk factor for developing dementia, despite evidence that one-third of dementia cases could be a result of controllable factors.

Heavy drinking, smoking, high blood pressure, depression and diabetes have all been linked to the disease, while taking regular exercise offers protective benefits. However, just two percent of the public is able to identify all of these factors.

Moreover, 27 percent of people in Britain were shown to incorrectly believe there is nothing anyone can do to reduce their risks of developing dementia, rising to 33 percent among people aged 65 and older.

Dr Charles Alessi, senior dementia advisor at Public Health England, said: "What's good for the heart is good for the brain and simple steps like giving up smoking, reducing alcohol intake, losing weight and taking regular exercise can reduce your risk of developing dementia in the future."

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