New WHO guideline say up to 45% of dementia risk could be prevented or delayed

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released updated global guidelines suggesting that up to 45% of dementia risk could be prevented or delayed by addressing a range of modifiable risk factors throughout life

The new recommendations were published on 15 July 2026 and show how the latest scientific evidence and practical measures countries, healthcare systems and individuals can take to protect brain health.

Dementia is a progressive condition that affects memory, thinking, behaviour and the ability to carry out everyday activities. More than 57 million people are currently living with dementia worldwide, with nearly 10 million new cases diagnosed each year. Alzheimer’s disease remains the most common form, accounting for an estimated 60–70% of all cases.

Focusing on prevention

While there is still no cure for dementia, growing evidence suggests that many cases may be linked to risk factors that can be modified. The updated WHO guidance identifies tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, social isolation, air pollution, high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol as some of the major factors that can increase the likelihood of developing dementia later in life.

The guidelines encourage action across the entire lifespan rather than waiting until older age, emphasising that protecting brain health begins with healthy daily habits and effective management of long-term medical conditions.

Healthy habits that support brain health

The recommendations highlight several lifestyle changes that may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Regular physical activity remains one of the strongest protective measures, alongside maintaining a balanced, healthy diet and avoiding tobacco use. Reducing alcohol consumption is also advised as part of an overall strategy to support both brain and general health.

The updated guidance also suggests keeping the brain active through cognitive training and mentally stimulating activities. Staying socially connected is another key recommendation, with regular engagement in social activities helping to reduce isolation, which has increasingly been recognised as a significant risk factor for dementia.

For the first time, the WHO also recommends reducing exposure to air pollution as part of dementia prevention efforts, showing growing evidence linking environmental factors with cognitive decline.

Managing health conditions

The guidelines stress that controlling conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol can play an important role in lowering dementia risk. Early diagnosis and effective treatment of these conditions not only improve cardiovascular health but may also help protect brain function over time.

Hearing loss is another area addressed in the updated recommendations. The WHO suggests that hearing aids may be offered as part of dementia risk-reduction strategies for people who need them, as untreated hearing impairment has been associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline.

What the evidence does not support

The WHO advises against taking vitamin B or vitamin E supplements, omega-3 fatty acids, or multivitamin and mineral supplements solely to prevent dementia if there is no diagnosed nutritional deficiency. Current evidence does not show enough benefit to recommend these supplements for dementia prevention, and unnecessary supplementation may carry potential risks.

Dementia continues to have an impact on individuals, families, and healthcare systems worldwide. The condition is estimated to cost the global economy around US$1.3 trillion each year, with unpaid care provided by family members and friends accounting for roughly half of that total.

The updated WHO guidelines show the importance of prevention by promoting healthier lifestyles, better management of chronic diseases, and greater awareness of environmental and social influences on brain health.

As research continues to evolve, these recommendations provide a practical roadmap for reducing dementia risk and helping more people maintain cognitive health and independence later in life.