How it fits together · lesson 7 of 10
Protecting against cognitive decline
A large share of dementia risk is potentially modifiable — by you.
6 min read · reviewed October 2026
More in your hands than you'd think
Dementia can feel like pure fate, but a landmark analysis found that a remarkable share of cases are tied to modifiable risk factors — the very levers this whole track is about. That's genuinely hopeful news.
According to the Lancet Commission, roughly what percentage of dementia cases are linked to modifiable risk factors?
Somewhere between 0 and 80 %.
Reveal the answer →
~40%
The Lancet Commission estimated that around 40% of dementia cases are associated with modifiable risk factors — including physical inactivity, hearing loss, smoking, hypertension, obesity, diabetes, depression, social isolation, excess alcohol, air pollution, low education, and head injury. Acting on them genuinely shifts the odds.
Modifiable dementia-risk levers
- Stay physically active — the strongest single protective lever.
- Protect cardiovascular and metabolic health (blood pressure, blood sugar, weight).
- Address hearing loss — using hearing aids when needed is protective.
- Stay socially and mentally engaged; keep learning.
- Don't smoke; keep alcohol modest; protect your head from injury.
What did the Lancet Commission conclude about dementia risk?
- It's entirely genetic and fixed
- Around 40% of cases are linked to modifiable factors
- Nothing can change the risk
- Only medication can lower risk
Show the answer →
B.Around 40% of cases are linked to modifiable factors
About 40% of dementia cases are associated with modifiable risk factors — exercise, cardiometabolic health, hearing, engagement, and more — meaning your habits meaningfully shift the odds.