These 8 things can reduce the risk of dementia

The new WHO guidelines are part of the Global Action Plan for Public Health Response to Dementia 2017-2025. 

The guidelines were released in 2019 and should be included when health authorities around the world are planning to address the dementia crisis.

In 2019, around 50 million worldwide have dementia. In the coming years, it will increase with ten million cases each year. By 2050, the number of people with dementia will triple. In 2050, spending on dementia will be exaggerated two trillion dollars. (More than 1500 times the annual state budget in Norway.)  

"I urge all stakeholders to make the best use of these recommendations to improve the lives of people with dementia, their carers and their families," said Dr. Ren Minghui, Assistant Director General for Universal Health Coverage / Infectious and Noncommunicable Diseases, World Health Organization.

The World Health Organization is one of the partners when the University of Bergen applies to get the Center for Innovation-driven Research in Elderly Health, BetterAge, to Bergen.

– WHO is now ahead to inform the world's people that it is possible to reduce the risk of dementia. Recent research clearly shows us this is the case. We must open up and understand that we can manage much of the risk ourselves, says Bettina Husebø, head of SEFAS at the University of Bergen.

Recent research shows only 10 percent of dementia cases are genetic and humans can reduce the risk by following the guidelines. 

Here are the WHO's guidelines on how to reduce dementia risk:

• Physical activity
• Cut out tobacco
• Proper diet
• Reduce alcohol consumption
• Cognitive training
• Social activity
• Weight Management

In addition, it is important to have good control / management of high blood pressure, diabetes, dyslipidemia, depression and hearing loss.