Socio-economic inequalities significantly impact brain structure and connectivity, accelerating aging and increasing the risk of dementia, according to a ground-breaking study from Trinity College Dublin. Research shows that high levels of asymmetry are related to decreased brain volume and disrupted connectivity, particularly in areas such as temporo-posterior and cerebellar regions that are essential for memory and cognitive function.

Study published in Nature Aging emphasizes deep impact of structural inequality brain healthThis shows that people with alzheimer’s disease experience the most severe effects, suggesting that environmental and social factors associated with inequality increase neurodegeneration. In contrast, people with frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) showed milder effects, possibly due to a strong genetic component in the condition.

The research team, led by Dr. Agustín Ibáñez, emphasizes that these findings remain significant even after taking into account individual factors such as education, age, gender, and cognitive ability. This reinforces the independent role of broader socio-economic and environmental factors in influencing brain health. “Reductions in brain volume and connectivity are frequently observed in patients with dementia and are associated with disease progression and severity,” the authors said.

Dr. Ibáñez stressed the urgency of addressing disparities in brain health, especially in low- and middle-income countries, where dementia rates are rising. Targeted interventions focusing on area-specific factors – such as democratic governance, access to green spaces and air quality – may reduce the burden of dementia in disadvantaged populations. Integrating social and environmental variables into global brain health research is essential to uncover the root causes of these disparities and develop effective solutions.

While systemic efforts are required to address socioeconomic disparities, people can take active steps to promote brain health and potentially delay aging-related changes. Here are some science-backed tips:

– Adopt a brain-healthy diet: Eating a Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and olive oil can support cognitive health. Foods such as fatty fish, blueberries and walnuts are particularly beneficial for brain function.

– Be physically active: Regular aerobic exercise, such as walking, cycling or swimming, improves blood flow to the brain and reduces the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

– Engage in mental stimulation: Activities like reading, puzzles and learning new skills can increase cognitive reserve and delay age-related decline.

– Prioritize social relationships: Strong social relationships are linked to well-being mental health And the risk of dementia reduces. Connect with friends, family and community groups.

– Manage stress effectively: Chronic stress can accelerate brain aging. Practices like meditation, yoga and mindfulness help reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being.

-Ensure quality sleep: Poor sleep is linked to cognitive decline. Aim for 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night so the brain can repair and consolidate memories.

– Avoid smoking and limit alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are linked to faster brain aging and an increased risk of dementia.

– Preventing chronic diseases: Manage conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity, which are risk factors for cognitive decline.

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