Reducing the Risk of Cognitive Decline and Dementia: WHO Recommendations

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Gerontology
• Neurology

Background:

• Global population ageing is increasing dementia prevalence, creating substantial health and social care burdens.
• Dementia affects approximately 55 million people worldwide, disproportionately impacting low- and middle-income countries.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) developed a Global Action Plan to address the public health response to dementia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present evidence-based, multisectoral recommendations for reducing dementia risk.
• To provide guidance on implementing interventions and policy actions for dementia risk reduction.
• To support health and social care professionals in delivering culturally appropriate dementia interventions.

Main Methods:

• Development of global, evidence-informed recommendations by the WHO.
• Rigorous guideline development methodology involving multidisciplinary experts.
• Recommendations based on WHO Guidelines on risk reduction of cognitive decline and dementia.

Main Results:

• Recommendations cover lifestyle, behavior, physical health conditions, and specific interventions.
• Focus on enhancing capacity of health and social care professionals.
• Interventions aim to reduce dementia risk or delay its progression.

Conclusions:

• Multisectoral, evidence-based interventions can potentially reduce dementia risk.
• Culturally and gender-appropriate approaches are crucial for effective implementation.
• Addressing dementia risk reduction is vital for global health and social care systems.