Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are a major cause of global mortality and
disability. Although the CVD burden is declining in those aged over 50,
current rates of CVD below this age have either remained steady or
increased. In high-income countries, lifestyle factors, such as obesity,
lack of physical activity, and poor diet, are all increasing the incidence
of CVD.Studies have revealed that cardiovascular risk factors may contribute to
late-life cognitive decline and dementia but, until now, there has been
little evidence that CVD might speed cognitive decline in middle age.Now,
new research, part of the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults
(CARDIA) study, has found that premature CVD — at or below the age of 60 —
may affect brain health and increase cognitive decline in midlife.The research appears in Neurology, the journal of the American Academy of
Neurology.
disability. Although the CVD burden is declining in those aged over 50,
current rates of CVD below this age have either remained steady or
increased. In high-income countries, lifestyle factors, such as obesity,
lack of physical activity, and poor diet, are all increasing the incidence
of CVD.Studies have revealed that cardiovascular risk factors may contribute to
late-life cognitive decline and dementia but, until now, there has been
little evidence that CVD might speed cognitive decline in middle age.Now,
new research, part of the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults
(CARDIA) study, has found that premature CVD — at or below the age of 60 —
may affect brain health and increase cognitive decline in midlife.The research appears in Neurology, the journal of the American Academy of
Neurology.
