Researchers analyzed the health outcomes of 9,844 members of the Kaiser Permanente Northern California Medical Group, who had undergone detailed health evaluations, including cholesterol testing, at ages 40 to 45. The researchers then examined participants' medical records 30 to 35 years later.
When compared with participants with desirable cholesterol levels (defined as less than 200 mg/dL), those with moderately elevated levels (200 to 239 mg/dL) were 50% more likely to develop vascular dementia later on. They were also more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease, although the results did not reach statistical significance.
Those with high cholesterol (240 mg/dL or higher) were 57% more likely to develop Alzheimer's. They were also more likely to develop vascular dementia, but the results did not reach statistical significance.
Previous studies have shown that high cholesterol and other factors that contribute to heart disease can increase risk of dementia. But this study is notable for its size and inclusion of participants from multiple ethnic backgrounds. As such, it adds further evidence that finding ways to keep cholesterol levels in the healthy range is good for the mind as well as for the heart.
Solomon A, et al. "Midlife Serum Cholesterol and Increased Risk of Alzheimer's and Vascular Dementia Three Decades Later," Dementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders (Aug. 2009): Vol. 28, No. 1, pp. 75–80.
Dr. Cohen is a board certified Internist and Cardiologist in Los Angeles.
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