Dementia is often associated with ageing, but cognitive decline that interferes with daily life should not simply be dismissed as a normal part of getting older. The condition can affect memory, communication, behaviour and the ability to perform everyday tasks.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Arun Shah, Director – Neurosciences, Sir H.N. “Smoking can contribute by damaging the blood vessels supplying the brain, raising the blood pressure levels in the process. He added that smoking-related oxidative stress and chronic inflammation may also contribute to changes in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Conditions such as diabetes, obesity and high cholesterol can affect vascular health and contribute to inflammation throughout the body. Over time, these changes may affect the brain’s blood supply and increase the risk of cognitive problems.
Reliance Foundation Hospital, explained how factors such as high blood pressure , diabetes, smoking and high cholesterol can affect brain health and contribute to dementia risk. (Also read: ‘I drink black coffee daily’: Oncologist shares 6 research-backed benefits, from brain health to longevity ) Other risk factors include diabetes , smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, high LDL or cholesterol levels and previous brain injury.
Moreover, toxins found in cigarette smoke can damage the blood vessel lining,” Dr Shah said.
Genetics can also influence an individual’s susceptibility. People with a family history of dementia may have a higher underlying risk, which can become more concerning when combined with uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes or high cholesterol. Dr. Arun B. Shah is the Director of the Department of Neurosciences at Sir H. N. Reliance Foundation Hospital. He also leads the hospital’s Comprehensive Stroke Centre and provides care through its Multiple Sclerosis and Memory Clinics. Dr. He later pursued an MD in Internal Medicine and DM in Neurology from the same institution. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Shah completed his MBBS from Seth GS Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai, in 1972.
