Researchers used a method called Mendelian randomization to study how body weight affects dementia risk. They looked at genetic data from people in the Copenhagen area and the United Kingdom. The main focus was on vascular-related dementia, which is linked to blood vessel problems in the brain.
The study found that a higher BMI was clearly connected to a greater chance of developing vascular dementia. For every standard increase in BMI, the risk went up by about 60% to 90%. This means that maintaining a healthy weight could help lower this risk.
High blood pressure was also a major factor. The study showed that blood pressure explained a large part of the link between BMI and dementia. This suggests that controlling both weight and blood pressure together is important for brain health.
The research also looked at other conditions like Alzheimer's disease and heart disease. While the main focus was on vascular dementia, the findings support the idea that overall heart and brain health are connected. The study did not report any safety issues or side effects.
This research highlights that high BMI and high blood pressure are important, changeable risk factors for dementia. By addressing these, people may be able to reduce their risk of developing this condition.
