Abstract

Background: Dementia poses a significant public health challenge, with a growing prevalence globally. Identifying modifiable risk factors is crucial for preventive interventions. This study aims to investigate the impact of lifestyle factors on the risk of developing dementia. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted among 2,500 participants aged 50 and above, free of dementia at baseline. Participants were followed up for 10 years, during which incident cases of dementia were recorded. Lifestyle factors including physical activity, diet, cognitive engagement, and social interaction were assessed through standardized questionnaires. Results: Over the follow-up period, 350 participants developed dementia. After adjusting for age, gender, and other covariates, higher levels of physical activity were associated with a reduced risk of dementia (HR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.56 - 0.82, p < 0.05). Similarly, adherence to a Mediterranean-style diet was inversely associated with dementia risk (HR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.63 - 0.91, p < 0.05). Engagement in cognitive activities and social interaction also showed protective effects against dementia, although the associations were weaker than those observed for physical activity and diet. Conclusion: This study provides evidence supporting the notion that lifestyle factors, including physical activity and diet, may influence the risk of developing dementia. Promoting healthy lifestyles characterized by regular exercise and a balanced diet could potentially reduce the burden of dementia on society.