Lifestyle Choices Significantly Impact Brain Health and Alzheimer's Risk, UTSA Researchers Find
Researchers at The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) and UT Health San Antonio are highlighting the critical role of midlife lifestyle choices in shaping long-term cognitive health and influencing the risk of Alzheimer's disease. With approximately 7.4 million Americans aged 65 and older currently living with Alzheimer's, a number projected to nearly double in the next 25 years, understanding preventable factors is crucial. Dr. Claudia Suemoto, a physician-scientist and professor at the Kate Marmion School of Public Health and the Biggs Institute, emphasizes that the period between ages 35 and 65 is a particularly important window for prevention. Uncontrolled cardiovascular conditions during these years can lead to brain changes that may increase dementia risk 10 to 30 years later. A study involving 402 San Antonio residents found that physical activity and controlled blood sugar in midlife were associated with slower cognitive decline later in life. UTSA researchers are also exploring beyond tradi...
