Cholesterol Instability Tied to Higher Dementia Risk

New findings from the ASPREE project suggest that significant fluctuations in cholesterol levels, particularly total cholesterol and LDL (the "bad" cholesterol), may increase the risk of dementia and cognitive decline in older adults. The study, which monitored nearly 10,000 participants in their 70s from the U.S. and Australia, highlights the potential impact of cholesterol variability on brain health beyond its known cardiovascular risks.

Key results show that participants with the most fluctuating total cholesterol levels faced a 60% higher risk of dementia and a 23% increased chance of cognitive decline. Similarly, those with the greatest LDL variability saw a 48% increased risk of dementia and a 27% higher likelihood of cognitive issues.

Lead researcher Dr. Zhen Zhou from Monash University recommends annual cholesterol monitoring in older adults as a way to identify those at elevated risk for dementia early on. She notes that these fluctuations could serve as early warning signs, offering opportunities for timely intervention.

Despite the promising data, experts like Dr. Clifford Segil caution against immediate changes in clinical practices. While cholesterol variability may emerge as a valuable tool in dementia prevention, further research is required to solidify its role as a risk factor for cognitive decline.