According to new global guidelines on the prevention, early detection and management of dementia published by the World Health Organization (WHO), up to 45% of dementia cases could be prevented or delayed by addressing risk factors early.
WHO estimates that more than 57 million people worldwide are currently living with dementia, and this number continues to grow. The disease remains one of the leading causes of disability among older adults.
Factors to consider
WHO has identified 14 factors associated with an increased risk of dementia. These include:
- Hypertension;
- Diabetes;
- Obesity;
- Smoking;
- Excessive alcohol consumption;
- Physical inactivity;
- Depression;
- Hearing loss;
- Social isolation;
- Air pollution;
- Traumatic brain injury;
- High cholesterol;
- Vision impairment;
- Low education level.
According to WHO, prevention is key. The earlier a person begins taking preventive measures, the greater the potential benefit. The organization recommends starting prevention as early as possible — not only in old age but also in middle age. Dementia develops gradually, and lifestyle changes can reduce the risk even in people with a hereditary predisposition.
Prevention tips
WHO recommends engaging in regular physical activity, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy weight, promptly treating hearing and vision impairments, staying socially and mentally active throughout life, and monitoring blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
In many countries, including Kazakhstan, the population is gradually aging, and the number of older adults is increasing. Kazakhstan’s aging index reached 32.9 in 2025, up from 31.1 in 2024. This means the burden on the healthcare system from dementia and Alzheimer’s disease is likely to increase.
According to WHO, controlling blood pressure, diabetes, hearing loss, and other modifiable risk factors is one of the most effective ways currently known to reduce the risk of developing dementia.
