WHO Releases Updated Guidelines to Reduce Dementia Risk and Cognitive Decline

These evidence-based recommendations aim to help countries prevent or delay the onset of cognitive decline through lifestyle interventions, medical management, and environmental changes.

Dementia affects more than 57 million people globally, with nearly 10 million new diagnoses occurring every year, according to the WHO. Alzheimer disease remains the most prevalent form of the condition, accounting for an estimated 60% to 70% of all cases.

Modifiable Risk Factors and Prevention Strategies

The WHO guidelines identify several behavioral and medical factors that can be altered to lower the risk of dementia. These include tobacco use, alcohol consumption, social isolation, and physical inactivity. The organization also highlights the impact of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), specifically high blood pressure and diabetes.

To combat these risks, the updated guidance recommends specific lifestyle interventions for adults with normal cognition or those experiencing mild cognitive impairment. These include cognitive training, cognitive stimulation, and active engagement in social activities.

The WHO also lists the following medical and environmental interventions to reduce risk:

• Increasing physical activity and adopting a healthy diet.
• Stopping tobacco use and reducing alcohol intake.
• Managing cardiometabolic conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
• Reducing exposure to air pollution, a new addition to the recommendations.
• Utilizing hearing aids as part of a risk-reduction strategy.

Regarding supplementation, the guidelines do not recommend the use of vitamins B and E, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), or multivitamins and minerals for those without a diagnosed deficiency. The WHO cited a lack of evidence showing benefits that outweigh potential harmful effects.

Public Health Impact and Economic Costs

Dementia creates significant burdens on individual independence, safety, and dignity, while placing a heavy strain on families and caregivers. The global economic impact is estimated at US$ 1.3 trillion annually, according to the WHO.

Approximately half of that total cost is driven by unpaid care provided by friends and family members. By integrating services for mental health, brain health, and NCDs, the WHO suggests countries can reduce the long-term burden of the disease.

“We know more today than ever before about what drives dementia risk, and these guidelines translate that knowledge into action. Countries now have clear, evidence-based recommendations they can put into practice immediately to protect people’s cognitive health.”

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General

The current framework focuses on early awareness and timely action to protect cognitive function across a person’s life course.