Education, Hypertension, and Smoking Identified as Top Risk Factors for Dementia Among Koreans
As society ages, interest in dementia is increasing. According to a recently published study, risk factors for dementia vary by country. In particular, it has been revealed that Koreans have distinct primary causes compared to other nations, drawing significant attention.
According to the research results, the biggest factors increasing the risk of dementia for Koreans were low education levels, hypertension, and smoking, in that order. While hearing loss and depression are frequently mentioned as major causes worldwide, it was found that factors related to lifestyle habits and educational environments have a greater impact in Korea.
Experts explain that low education levels reduce brain activity, making individuals more vulnerable to dementia. Additionally, hypertension and smoking have a direct negative impact on cerebrovascular health, leading to a decline in cognitive function. Unlike genetic factors, these elements are crucial because they can be controlled and managed by ourselves.
Although dementia remains a difficult disease to cure, it can be sufficiently prevented by managing risk factors in advance. For example, simply maintaining blood pressure within the normal range and quitting smoking can significantly lower the probability of developing dementia. Furthermore, engaging in activities to learn new things even in old age is a great help in protecting brain health.
In conclusion, a dementia prevention strategy tailored to the characteristics of Koreans is necessary. It is more important than anything else to check blood pressure through regular health screenings and maintain healthy lifestyle habits such as regular exercise and smoking cessation. Why not try changing one small habit starting today for your brain health?