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Can change in cholesterol levels increase the risk of dementia? The study says yes
Can changes in cholesterol levels affect brain aging? The study says yes (Image Credit: ISTOCK)
Cholesterol as a new dementia risk indicator
Fellow, a research from Mamat University in Melbourne, Australia. Zen Jhou said that cholesterol variability can serve as a biomarker to help identify those at risk of dementia. He said, “Cholesterol is measured, measured per year, can provide more information than reading a single cholesterol in determining dementia risk,” he said in a news release.
How was the study done
To advance this, the researchers tracked over 9,800 seniors aged 65 years and above, who had no prior history of dementia or memory problems. His cholesterol level was measured at the beginning of the study and the beginning of three annual follow -up trips. The participants also conducted memory and cognitive tests every year.
Role of ‘Bad’ LDL cholesterol
Researchers found that the increased risk, especially the ups and downs in the level of total cholesterol and LDL (poor) cholesterol, was linked. However, they found no significant connection between dementia risk and changes in HDL (Good) cholesterol or triglycerides.
Why the rapidly rashes in cholesterol can affect the health of the brain
A potential explanation for this link is that unstable cholesterol levels can change fatty plates into the arteries, possibly leading to potential obstructions that reduce blood flow in the brain. This can increase the risk of mini-stroke or full-stroke, both known to cognitive decline.
Cholesterol monitoring for better brain health
Dr. Zhou explains the importance of monitoring regular cholesterol in older adults. “Cholesterol of older people should be tracked over time to help identify the risk of cognitive loss,” he said. He also suggested that drugs such as lifestyle changes and statin can help maintain stable cholesterol levels and potentially reduce the risk of dementia.