Living in a disadvantaged neighborhood has long been associated with an increased risk of dementia, but researchers at the University of Cambridge have now discovered why this may be the case. In a recent study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia, the team found that living in a deprived neighborhood is linked to damage to brain vessels, which can impact cognition, as well as poorer management of lifestyle factors known to increase the chances of developing dementia.
Dementia disproportionately affects individuals living in socioeconomically disadvantaged neighborhoods, regardless of their own socioeconomic status. Previous studies have shown that these individuals experience greater cognitive decline and have a higher risk of developing dementia. The researchers wanted to delve deeper into this link and investigate how neighborhood deprivation affects brain health.
The study involved 585 healthy adults aged 40-59 living in the UK and Ireland who were part of the PREVENT-Dementia program. The researchers collected data on neighborhood deprivation based on postcodes, cognitive performance, modifiable lifestyle risk factors, and MRI brain scans to assess damage to brain vessels.
The findings revealed a strong association between living in a deprived neighborhood and poorer management of lifestyle factors that increase dementia risk. People in disadvantaged areas were more likely to experience poor sleep, obesity, high blood pressure, and lack of physical activity. Surprisingly, they consumed less alcohol than those in less disadvantaged neighborhoods, despite alcohol consumption being a known risk factor for dementia.
The researchers also found a significant link between cognition and neighborhood deprivation, particularly in areas with poorer housing, higher crime rates, and lower environmental quality. This had a negative impact on information processing, spatial awareness, and attention.
One explanation for these findings is that living in a deprived neighborhood is associated with damage to the brain’s small blood vessels, which can affect thinking skills. Lifestyle factors play a significant role in this damage, suggesting that the impact of deprivation on brain function and cognitive performance is influenced by lifestyle and vascular health.
Lead author Dr. Audrey Low emphasized the importance of addressing environmental factors in reducing dementia risk, stating that interventions should focus on the wider social determinants of brain health. Senior author Professor John O’Brien highlighted the need for support from policymakers to address the health inequalities faced by individuals living in deprived neighborhoods.
The researchers suggested tailored approaches for different neighborhoods, such as reducing alcohol consumption in wealthier areas and promoting healthy lifestyles in lower-income areas. They emphasized the importance of improving access to healthcare, healthy food options, and safe recreational areas to support individuals in adopting healthier lifestyle choices.
While these findings are specific to the UK and Ireland, further research is needed to determine if they apply in other cultures. The study underscores the impact of neighborhood deprivation on brain health and the need for comprehensive strategies to reduce dementia risk and address health inequalities.
