We must stress the importance of controlling risk factors for cardiovascular disease because they are modifiable factors that prevent Alzheimer’s disease. The only long-term study that has successfully shown a reduction in new cases of dementia is a study on the treatment of high blood pressure. The prevention of dementia thus becomes an additional reason to maintain optimal control of blood pressure throughout adulthood.

Unfortunately, the occurrence of obesity and diabetes in epidemic proportions in our society is likely to increase the risk of developing dementia as we age. Again, a change in lifestyle can reduce the risk.

With regard to developments in research, there is a significant movement to initiate much treatment. anksčiau in Alzheimer’s disease, before the stage of dementia is reached. We know that the disease is detectable in the brain a few years before significant memory problems. Brain imaging will play an increasingly important role in diagnosis.

D^r Christian Bocti, neurologist, MD, FRCPC