Recent research suggests that monitoring fluctuations in cholesterol levels could provide early indicators of dementia risk, potentially allowing individuals to seek preventive treatment up to six years before any symptoms emerge.
This study, led by Australian scientists at Monash University, tracked nearly 10,000 older adults, revealing that stable cholesterol levels were linked with a lower likelihood of dementia and cognitive decline.
The findings build on previous research that associates high cholesterol with dementia. However, the new study specifically examined changes in cholesterol levels over time, rather than focusing solely on high or low levels. Individuals in the study whose cholesterol levels fluctuated significantly were found to have a 60% higher risk of dementia and a 23% higher chance of cognitive decline than those with stable levels.
The study, presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2024, observed participants in their 70s who did not change their cholesterol-lowering medications during the study period. These patients were divided into quartiles based on their cholesterol variability, and those with the highest fluctuations demonstrated the greatest cognitive decline. Lead researcher Dr. Zhen Zhou emphasized that older adults with unpredictable cholesterol levels, regardless of medication status, could benefit from more frequent monitoring and preventive measures.
Experts underscore the study’s importance but caution that it remains observational. Dr. Fernando Testai, a neurology professor at the University of Illinois Chicago, points out that the research provides “an important piece of the puzzle” in understanding dementia risk but cannot definitively prove causation. He adds that other factors, such as diet and exercise, are also crucial in managing cholesterol and supporting brain health.
The study also highlights potential limitations, including the demographic makeup of participants, with 96% identifying as white, which may restrict the generalizability of findings. As such, the researchers suggest that further studies across diverse populations are needed.
The Daily Mail and American Heart Association contributed to this report.
