Latest news with #JAMANeurology
CBC
6 days ago
- Health
- CBC
Researchers retract, then re-publish study linking wildfire smoke and dementia
Last year, researchers said they had identified a link between wildfire smoke and increased risk of dementia. Now, they're retracting the study, published last November in the journal JAMA Neurology, after discovering a mistake in how they coded the data. "It was a very small error. We had a single 'or' symbol, where we should have had an 'and' symbol in thousands of lines of code," said Joan Casey, one of the co-authors of the study. They've corrected the error, crunched the data again and republished their paper. Now, the authors say their findings suggest a much more subtle link between wildfire smoke and dementia. "We now have a nuanced finding in the corrected result," said Casey, who is a professor in the school of public health at the University of Washington. Initially, Casey and her colleagues had found when the three-year average concentration of wildfire PM2.5 (the average concentration of fine particulate matter in the air due to wildfires in the region) went up by just one microgram per cubic metre of air, there was an associated 18 per cent of increase in the odds of a dementia diagnosis. Now, Casey believes the increase to be closer to 12 per cent. The finding is also no longer statistically significant, meaning there is some possibility the result is due to chance. But that doesn't mean the researchers were wrong to identify the possible link, says Scott Weichenthal, a professor in the department of epidemiology, biostatistics and occupational health at McGill University. It just means the link needs to be studied further. "The data still suggests there's a positive association there for sure. It's just not quite as strong as it was in their original paper," said Weichenthal, who was not involved with the study. A growing body of research already links long-term exposure to air pollution with an increased risk of dementia. What's less established, is whether specific sources of air pollution — like wildfire smoke — affect the risk of dementia. There's been a limited number of studies, like this one, suggesting wildfire smoke from agriculture and wildfires were associated with higher rates of dementia. Weichenthal says researchers have a long way to go in understanding the long-term effects of wildfire smoke, especially on peoples' brains.
Scottish Sun
6 days ago
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Looking after grandchildren on a regular basis could significantly lower your risk of dementia, say scientists
Plus, other lifestyle changes to make to reduce your dementia risk MIND MATTERS Looking after grandchildren on a regular basis could significantly lower your risk of dementia, say scientists Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) GRANDPARENTS who care for their grandchildren on a frequent basis could be at lower risk of developing dementia, say researchers. The findings add to a growing body of research that suggests practical and social engagement in older age boosts cognitive health. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 Grandparents who frequently look after their grandchildren have been found to be at lesser risk of dementia Credit: Getty While there's no guaranteed way to prevent dementia, certain lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk. A new study, published in Jama Network Open, found grandparents who cared for their grandchildren on a frequent but noncustodial basis had a statically significant lower risk of developing dementia, when compared to those who didn't engage in such roles. Scientists also noted grandparents who were caregiving were more likely to have a mobile phone, which kept them more connected and also helped lower the risk. The study analysed the experiences of more than 10,000 older adults in China and tracked cognitive outcomes in relation to their caregiving activities. In China, roughly 17 million people were living with dementia in 2019, according to a report published in JAMA Neurology in February 2020. "Dementia is a pressing public health concern, with a substantial burden in China, which accounts for nearly 25 per cent of worldwide cases and great socioeconomic costs," the authors wrote. The findings of the new study support previous research suggesting staying socially active and engaged can help preserve brain health, particularly in elderly adults. "The protective association of nonintensive caregiving with dementia odds supports the use-it-or-lose-it hypothesis, which posits that engaging in mentally and socially stimulating activities—such as interacting with grandchildren—can preserve cognitive reserves and delay cognitive decline," the researchers concluded. But the study did caution more intense caregiving duties could have a negative impact. "These benefits, however, appear to have a threshold, as intensive caregiving, often accompanied by heightened stress and caregiving burden, was not associated with reduced dementia odds," the authors warned. Five simple tests that could indicate dementia Social isolation can lead to an increased risk of developing dementia, says the Alzheimer's Society. This is related to whether a person lives alone, and whether they see friends and family regularly or engage in social or community activities. As well as staying in touch with loved ones, finding activities or groups that align with your interests, such as book clubs, walking groups, or sports teams, can help maintain social connections. Embracing new experiences, such as learning new skills or taking up new hobbies can also help. And finding opportunities to connect, such as being open to meeting new people and forming new connections, may also be beneficial. Alongside staying socially connected, experts recommend the following lifestyle changes to stave off dementia...
The Sun
6 days ago
- Health
- The Sun
Looking after grandchildren on a regular basis could significantly lower your risk of dementia, say scientists
GRANDPARENTS who care for their grandchildren on a frequent basis could be at lower risk of developing dementia, say researchers. The findings add to a growing body of research that suggests practical and social engagement in older age boosts cognitive health. 1 While there's no guaranteed way to prevent dementia, certain lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk. A new study, published in Jama Network Open, found grandparents who cared for their grandchildren on a frequent but noncustodial basis had a statically significant lower risk of developing dementia, when compared to those who didn't engage in such roles. Scientists also noted grandparents who were caregiving were more likely to have a mobile phone, which kept them more connected and also helped lower the risk. The study analysed the experiences of more than 10,000 older adults in China and tracked cognitive outcomes in relation to their caregiving activities. In China, roughly 17 million people were living with dementia in 2019, according to a report published in JAMA Neurology in February 2020. "Dementia is a pressing public health concern, with a substantial burden in China, which accounts for nearly 25 per cent of worldwide cases and great socioeconomic costs," the authors wrote. The findings of the new study support previous research suggesting staying socially active and engaged can help preserve brain health, particularly in elderly adults. "The protective association of nonintensive caregiving with dementia odds supports the use-it-or-lose-it hypothesis, which posits that engaging in mentally and socially stimulating activities—such as interacting with grandchildren—can preserve cognitive reserves and delay cognitive decline," the researchers concluded. But the study did caution more intense caregiving duties could have a negative impact. "These benefits, however, appear to have a threshold, as intensive caregiving, often accompanied by heightened stress and caregiving burden, was not associated with reduced dementia odds," the authors warned. Five simple tests that could indicate dementia Social isolation can lead to an increased risk of developing dementia, says the Alzheimer's Society. This is related to whether a person lives alone, and whether they see friends and family regularly or engage in social or community activities. As well as staying in touch with loved ones, finding activities or groups that align with your interests, such as book clubs, walking groups, or sports teams, can help maintain social connections. Embracing new experiences, such as learning new skills or taking up new hobbies can also help. And finding opportunities to connect, such as being open to meeting new people and forming new connections, may also be beneficial. Alongside staying socially connected, experts recommend the following lifestyle changes to stave off dementia... Other ways to reduce your dementia risk There are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of developing dementia. Alzheimer's Society offers the following tips: Do regular physical exercise Regular physical activity is considered one of the best ways to reduce your risk of dementia. There are two main types - aerobic activity and strength-building activity. Aerobic activity includes activities like brisk walking, running and swimming. Strength-building include exercises like squats and push-ups. A combination of both types of activity is best. Drink less alcohol Drinking too much alcohol exposes your brain to high levels of harmful chemicals. You should avoid drinking more than 14 units of alcohol each week. This is the equivalent of one pint of beer and a small glass of wine each day. Don't smoke Smoking harms the circulation of blood around, particularly blood vessels in the brain. The earlier you stop smoking, the more brain damage you'll avoid. Manage long-term health conditions Certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes can increase the risk of getting dementia. Going for a health check to see if you have any of these is advised. Eating well and regularly exercising can help prevent and manage these conditions. Protect your eyesight and hearing Uncorrected vision loss can increase the risk of dementia. Similarly, hearing loss is tied to increased risk of dementia and could be an early symptom. The use of hearing aids has been shown to reduce the risk of dementia to the level of a person with normal hearing. Protect your head Traumatic brain injuries caused by a blow or jolt to the head, particularly when a person is knocked unconscious, can start a process in the brain where the substances that cause Alzheimer's disease build up around the injured area. If you're in a situation where there's higher-than-normal risk of head injury, such as riding a bike or playing cricket, make sure to wear protective headgear.
Time of India
08-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Anxiety, depression and sleep medicines linked to higher risk of neurological disease
Commonly prescribed medicines for anxiety, depression and sleep disorders may pose a heightened risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ( ALS ), a progressive and fatal neurological disorder, according to a new study recently published in JAMA Neurology. The study researched the use of anxiolytics (used to relieve anxiety), hypnotics and sedatives (used to aid sleep or calm the body), and antidepressants (which work by altering brain chemistry to improve mood) and found that individuals who were prescribed such medications were more likely to be diagnosed with ALS in the later stages of life. The study further found that people who used these medication before being diagnosed with ALS had a poorer prognosis, which means that their disease progressed quickly and survival rate is minimal. However, experts caution that this finding is based on association, not causation. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Join new Free to Play WWII MMO War Thunder War Thunder Play Now Undo "These medications are often prescribed for symptoms such as anxiety, sleep disturbances, or depression, which may appear during the early (prodromal) phase of ALS - well before a formal diagnosis," explained Dr M S Panduranga, senior consultant (neurology), Dharamshila Narayana Super-specialty Hospital. "So, the link may reflect early, subtle neurological changes rather than the harmful effect of the drugs themselves," the doctor added. Live Events The study, which was conducted in Sweden, analysed nationwide data from over 1,000 ALS patients and more than 5,000 healthy individuals using the Swedish Motor Neuron Disease Quality Registry. The average age of participants was 67.5 years, and just over half (53.1%) were male. Dr Manjari Tripathi, professor and head of neurology at AIIMS, told TOI that such neuropsychiatric medications act on the brain's inhibitory pathways, which could interfere with motor neuron activity. "There could also be a toxic effect, especially with long-term, consistent use - not just occasional doses," she said. "Motor neuron disease leads to slow but steady progression of muscle weakness. Patients begin to struggle with everyday tasks - buttoning a shirt, combing their hair, walking. Eventually, they become wheelchair bound. Swallowing and speech become difficult, and muscles visibly shrink," she said, adding that one type of ALS was the same condition renowned physicist Stephen Hawking lived with for decades. However, the exact timeline between the medication and the onset of ALS remains unfound. Dr Madhukar Bhardwaj, director and head of neurology, Aakash Healthcare, said that a longer history of psychiatric symptoms and prolonged medication use appears to be associated with increased ALS risk. "In some observational studies, individuals using anxiety or depression medications for more than 10 years showed a stronger link with ALS, especially in younger patients. It's not yet certain whether this reflects a true biological risk or simply earlier diagnosis due to more medical attention," he said. "While there's no definitive proof that these medications cause ALS, we need to be cautious, especially when prescribing them to individuals with signs of neurological disease," Dr Anshu Rohatgi, vice-chairperson (neurology), Sir Ganga Ram Hospital told TOI. Meanwhile, doctors say patients must not stop medications on their own and should speak with their healthcare providers if they have concerns. (With TOI inputs)
Time of India
08-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Anxiety, depression and sleep meds may increase risk of rare neuro disease
NEW DELHI: Commonly prescribed medications for anxiety, depression and sleep disorders may be associated with a higher risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive and fatal neurological disorder, according to a new study recently published in JAMA Neurology. The study examined the use of anxiolytics (used to relieve anxiety), hypnotics and sedatives (used to aid sleep or calm the body), and antidepressants (which work by altering brain chemistry to improve mood). Researchers found that individuals who were prescribed these medications were more likely to be diagnosed with ALS later in life compared to those who did not take them. Significantly, the study also found that people who used these medications before being diagnosed with ALS had a poorer prognosis, meaning their disease progressed more quickly and survival was shorter. However, experts caution that this finding is based on association, not causation. "These medications are often prescribed for symptoms such as anxiety, sleep disturbances, or depression, which may appear during the early (prodromal) phase of ALS - well before a formal diagnosis," explained Dr M S Panduranga, senior consultant (neurology), Dharamshila Narayana Superspecialty Hospital. "So, the link may reflect early, subtle neurological changes rather than the harmful effect of the drugs themselves." by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo The study, conducted in Sweden, analysed nationwide data from over 1,000 ALS patients and more than 5,000 healthy individuals using the Swedish Motor Neuron Disease Quality Registry. The average age of participants was 67.5 years, and just over half (53.1%) were male. Dr Manjari Tripathi, professor and head of neurology at AIIMS, explained that most neuropsychiatric medications act on the brain's inhibitory pathways, which could interfere with motor neuron activity. "There could also be a toxic effect, especially with long-term, consistent use - not just occasional doses," she said. "Motor neuron disease leads to slow but steady progression of muscle weakness," she added. "Patients begin to struggle with everyday tasks - buttoning a shirt, combing their hair, walking. Eventually, they become wheelchair bound. Swallowing and speech become difficult, and muscles visibly shrink." One type of ALS, she noted, was the same condition renowned physicist Stephen Hawking lived with for decades. While the exact timeline between medication use and ALS onset remains unclear, Dr Madhukar Bhardwaj, director and head of neurology, Aakash Healthcare, said that a longer history of psychiatric symptoms and prolonged medication use appears to be associated with increased ALS risk. "In some observational studies, individuals using anxiety or depression medications for more than 10 years showed a stronger link with ALS, especially in younger patients," he said. "It's not yet certain whether this reflects a true biological risk or simply earlier diagnosis due to more medical attention." "While there's no definitive proof that these medications cause ALS, we need to be cautious, especially when prescribing them to individuals with signs of neurological disease," said Dr Anshu Rohatgi, vice-chairperson (neurology), Sir Ganga Ram Hospital. Doctors emphasise that patients should not stop their medications on their own. Instead, they should speak with their healthcare providers if they have concerns.
