High LDL cholesterol
The 2024 Lancet Commission added high LDL cholesterol as the second-largest modifiable factor, accounting for 7% of population dementia risk.
A standing panel of researchers reviews every study on a factor and weighs the evidence together. The 2024 Lancet Commission stands behind most of the numbers on this page.
Why it matters
Cholesterol builds up in blood vessel walls over decades. Statins and lifestyle changes can reduce levels and risk.
What to ask at the checkup
Ask whether a lipid panel is due and what the LDL target should be
Screening: Lipid panel (LDL, HDL, triglycerides)
Sources
Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2024 report of the Lancet standing Commission
Livingston G, Huntley J, Liu KY et al.. The Lancet, 2024.
Fourteen things people can change account for nearly half of dementia cases at the population level.
Routines for this factor
Swap butter for olive oil at breakfast
Use olive oil or avocado on toast instead of butter.
2 min, difficulty 1/3
This is research information, not medical advice. Nothing here replaces your parent's doctor.