Earlier Type 2 Diabetes Diagnoses Linked to Higher Dementia Risk

The younger a person is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, especially those with obesity, the higher their risk of developing dementia later in life, according to a November 13, 2024 study published in PLOS One.

Researchers at NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing in New York City state that being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes before age 50 significantly increases the risk of developing dementia.

The findings highlight a troubling trend as type 2 diabetes becomes more common in younger adults.

While type 2 diabetes was once associated with older age, 1 in 5 people worldwide with the condition are now under 40.

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body doesn’t properly use insulin or produces insufficient amounts, leading to high blood sugar levels.

How Diabetes May Impact Brain Health

The study analyzed 1,213 patients aged 50 and older who had type 2 diabetes but no dementia.

Participants were followed for up to 14 years, and nearly 18% developed dementia during this time.

Key findings include:

• People diagnosed with type 2 diabetes before age 50 were nearly twice as likely to develop dementia as those diagnosed after 70.
• For every year younger at diagnosis, the risk of dementia rose by 1.9%.
• The risk was highest among obese individuals diagnosed with diabetes before age 50.

Researchers speculate that high blood sugar, inflammation, and poor blood vessel health may contribute to the increased risk.

What Can Be Done?

The study underscores the importance of addressing obesity as a key risk factor for both diabetes and dementia.

The researchers emphasize that lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, and potentially medication could help lower dementia risks for younger adults with type 2 diabetes.