High LDL cholesterol
Elevated LDL cholesterol in midlife contributes to vascular damage that increases dementia risk.
Why it matters
Cholesterol builds up in blood vessel walls over decades. Statins and lifestyle changes can reduce levels and risk.
What to ask at the checkup
Ask whether a lipid panel is due and what the LDL target should be
Screening: Lipid panel (LDL, HDL, triglycerides)
Sources
Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2024 report of the Lancet Commission
Livingston G, Huntley J, Liu KY et al.. The Lancet, 2024.
Fourteen things people can change account for nearly half of dementia cases at the population level.
Association of serum lipid levels with risk of dementia
Thomas C, Faux P, Blin O et al.. Neurology, 2020.
High LDL cholesterol in middle age was linked to a modestly higher dementia risk later.
Routines for this factor
Swap butter for olive oil at breakfast
Use olive oil or avocado on toast instead of butter.
2 min, difficulty 1/3