Reducing levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), commonly known as “bad” cholesterol, could decrease the risk of dementia by 26%, according to a recent study. Research published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry found that individuals with lower LDL-C levels had a significantly reduced risk of developing dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, taking statins was linked to an extra protective effect for those with already low LDL-C levels.
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The number of people living with dementia worldwide is projected to nearly triple to 153 million by 2050. However, previous evidence suggests that nearly half of these cases could potentially be prevented or delayed. While LDL-C is well known for its role in cardiovascular disease—contributing to artery plaque build-up, strokes, and heart attacks—its link to dementia has remained unclear. A 2023 Lancet report indicated that high cholesterol in midlife was associated with 7% of dementia cases. Now, this new study suggests that maintaining low LDL-C levels could reduce dementia risk by a quarter.
Researchers examined data from 571,000 individuals in South Korea who had not been diagnosed with dementia. The study compared 192,213 people with LDL-C levels below 1.8 mmol/L to 379,006 people with levels above 3.4 mmol/L. Results showed that lower LDL-C levels were associated with a 26% reduction in overall dementia risk and a 28% reduction in Alzheimer’s risk. Additionally, statin use among individuals with low LDL-C levels was linked to a 13% reduction in dementia risk and a 12% decrease in Alzheimer’s risk compared to non-users.
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Despite its findings, the study was observational, meaning it cannot confirm a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Researchers acknowledged limitations, including the fact that lipid profiles can fluctuate over time. Dr Francesco Tamagnini, a neurophysiologist at the University of Reading, noted that the study provided a “convincing argument” to explore cholesterol’s role in dementia further. Meanwhile, Dr Julia Dudley, head of research at Alzheimer’s Research UK, stressed that dementia risk is complex and influenced by multiple factors. She emphasised the need for clinical trials to determine whether statins have a direct effect on brain health and disease processes.
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