A quarter of UK adults over the age of 40 cannot name a single lifestyle habit or health condition linked to an increased risk of dementia, according to new research.
The Alzheimer’s Society warned that this widespread lack of awareness is preventing millions of people from taking basic measures to safeguard their brain health.
An estimated 982,000 people currently live with dementia in the UK, though a third have received no formal diagnosis. That total is expected to reach 1.4 million by 2040.
Lifestyle choices and health issues that heighten the risk of developing dementia include high blood pressure, obesity, smoking, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol consumption, alongside conditions such as type 2 diabetes, depression, and hearing loss.
However, the survey of 1,393 UK adults, conducted on behalf of the Alzheimer’s Society, revealed that 26 per cent were unable to identify a single one of these factors.
Fewer than a third (32 per cent) were aware that high blood pressure increases risk, while 24 per cent identified high cholesterol. Meanwhile, just 21 per cent were aware of growing evidence indicating that 45 per cent of dementia cases could be linked to preventable or treatable factors.
Michelle Dyson, chief executive at the Alzheimer’s Society, said: "These new findings show that many people are not aware of the factors they can influence to help reduce their risk of developing dementia, the UK’s biggest killer.
"As a result, millions of people are missing the chance to take simple steps today that could help protect their brain health tomorrow, from getting their hearing checked to managing their blood pressure."
The findings also suggested adults over 40 may be living with unaddressed risks. Four in 10 respondents noted that their hearing had deteriorated over the past five years, yet only a third had undergone a hearing test in that timeframe.
Ms Dyson added: "By helping people to understand their risks and the actions they can take, we have a meaningful opportunity to reduce the number of people affected by dementia in the future."
Ian Maidment, professor in clinical pharmacy at Aston University, said: "Many people understandably live in fear of dementia.
"But there are many things that we can do to reduce the risk of dementia including exercise, not smoking, alcohol in moderation and managing diseases such as high blood pressure and a raised cholesterol.
"The key message is: what is good for the heart is good for the head. This message needs to be communicated in accessible ways to a diverse audience; social media has a key role."
Read MoreWarning issued as quarter of over-40s ‘unaware of preventable dementia risk factors’
HRT drugs could slash risk of dementia in women, new study shows
ADHD and autism services in England ‘under significant pressure’, watchdog warns
Experts issue fresh warning over baby food pouches sold in UK supermarkets
What to know about the growing US measles outbreak
Explosive diarrhea outbreak has millions skipping pre-bagged salad in US
