Obesity
Midlife obesity (BMI 30+) increases dementia risk by 30-40% through inflammation, insulin resistance and vascular damage.
Why it matters
Even modest weight loss (5-10%) reduces inflammation and improves blood sugar control, both of which protect the brain.
What to ask at the checkup
Ask whether a weight management plan would be appropriate
Screening: BMI calculation
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.
Body mass index and risk of dementia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Singh-Manoux A, Dugravot A, Shipley M et al.. BMJ, 2018.
Being obese in middle age raised dementia risk by about a third compared to a healthy weight.
Routines for this factor
Step on the scale this week
Weigh in once this week and record the number.
2 min, difficulty 1/3
Take the stairs once today
Choose stairs over the elevator or escalator for one trip.
2 min, difficulty 2/3