Combatting diseases without a cure requires taking early precautions. A new study has revealed 17 different ways to reduce the risk of age-related brain diseases such as stroke, depression, and dementia. Researchers at Mass General Brigham Hospital affiliated with Harvard University identified 17 modifiable risk factors and demonstrated how correcting these factors can reduce the risk of these three diseases. Analysis combining data from 59 previous studies provided significant findings that enhance quality of life and prevent premature deaths.

The research highlights common risk factors among diseases like stroke, depression, and dementia. These factors include high blood pressure, alcohol consumption, dietary habits, lack of physical activity, sleep patterns, and stress management among behavioral variables. The study showed that high blood pressure and severe kidney diseases have a considerable impact on stroke, dementia, and late-life depression. Jasper Senff, a researcher from the Brain Care Laboratories at Mass General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, stated, “The relationship between stroke, depression, and dementia is quite strong. These diseases can trigger one another, so preventive measures can reduce the frequency of experiencing multiple diseases at the same time.”

Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption harms the liver, heart, and mental health. What can you do? Spend alcohol-free days or completely quit drinking.
Blood Pressure: High blood pressure can lead to brain damage resulting in stroke and cognitive decline. What can you do? Control your blood pressure with regular exercise and healthy eating.
Body Mass Index (BMI): High BMI in middle age increases the risk of stroke and depression. What can you do? Focus on balanced nutrition and regular physical activity to reach a healthy weight.
Fasting Plasma Glucose: High fasting blood sugar is a precursor to diabetes and can increase the risk of dementia. What can you do? Control your blood sugar level with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Cholesterol Level: High cholesterol affects brain functions leading to stroke and dementia. What can you do? Consume less fatty foods, exercise, and quit smoking.

Leisure Time Cognitive Activity: Mental activities can help prevent cognitive decline. What can you do? Keep your mind active with activities like reading and puzzle-solving.
Depression Symptoms: Depression has a negative impact on brain health. What can you do? Cope with depression through regular exercise, healthy eating, and therapy.
Diet: Healthy eating plays a crucial role in preventing many diseases. What can you do? Opt for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Hearing Loss: Hearing loss can increase cognitive decline. What can you do? Protect your hearing health by avoiding loud noises.
Kidney Function: Chronic kidney disease increases the risk of stroke and dementia. What can you do? Maintain kidney health with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Pain: Chronic pain can increase the risk of depression and dementia. What can you do? Manage pain with regular exercise and relaxation techniques.
Physical Activity: Lack of exercise negatively affects brain health. What can you do? Aim to exercise for at least 150 minutes weekly.
Life Purpose: Having a strong purpose can improve mental health. What can you do? Set your goals and engage in meaningful activities.
Sleep: Regular sleep is essential for overall health. What can you do? Improve your sleep quality by adopting good sleep habits.
Smoking: Smoking restricts brain blood flow and increases dementia risk. What can you do? Seek support to quit smoking.
Social Engagement: Social isolation increases depression and cognitive decline. What can you do? Strengthen your social connections and participate in community activities.
Stress Management: Chronic stress increases the risk of dementia and stroke. What can you do? Manage your stress with relaxation techniques like meditation and deep breathing.

This research underscores the importance of lifestyle changes to simultaneously reduce the risk of age-related brain diseases. A healthy lifestyle can significantly decrease the likelihood of developing these illnesses.