The more fit you are, the less likely you are to develop Alzheimer’s disease. With a 33% lower risk of developing this neurodegenerative dementia, according to a study to be presented on it American Academy of Neurology At the annual meeting to be held next month.
Researchers at the Washington Veterans Center and George Washington University have tested and tracked 649,605 veterans (median age 61) for about a decade. Based on their cardiorespiratory fitness, participants were divided into five categories – from lowest to highest fitness level.
All participants took a test on a treadmill to measure how well the body was transporting oxygen to their muscles and how well their muscles were absorbing oxygen during exercise. Playing sports. This allowed for division.
Researchers have found that as physical fitness improves, a person’s chances of developing disease decrease. Compared to the least healthy group, those who were healthy had a 13% lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. The middle group was 20% less likely to develop dementia. The fourth group was 26% less sensitive. With odds of up to 33% lower risk for those who enjoy fitness.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. It is a progressive brain disorder that, over time, destroys memory and thinking skills, and interferes with the ability to perform daily tasks. About 6 million Americans age 65 or older have Alzheimer’s disease. There are no proven methods for treating the disease.
The researchers noted that increasing physical activity is a promising way to reduce the risk of developing the disease. Several studies have already indicated that regular physical activity can benefit the brain, and the Alzheimer’s Association considers it one of the best things people can do to reduce their chances of developing dementia.
“The idea that you can reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s disease simply by increasing your fitness level is very promising, especially since there are not enough treatments to prevent or stop the progression of the disease,” Edward Zamrini, principal of the school, said in a note. Study author.
Study co-author Charles Vasilis, team leader for the Washington Veterans Center, notes that the research findings will help clinicians “prescribe safe exercise programs to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia.”
“To help veterans prevent the development of Alzheimer’s disease, the research team is using artificial intelligence technology to convert the results into a formula that can be individually customized to show the benefits that small increases in physical activity can bring,” said Ching Zeng, one of the participants. Director of the Center for Data Science and Outcomes Research at Washington Veterans Medical Center.
Charlotte Whitmore is a contributor at Mediarunsearch.co.uk, covering a broad range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. She focuses on delivering clear, balanced reporting and practical information that helps readers stay informed about current events and emerging developments. Her work highlights stories that matter to everyday audiences, with an emphasis on accuracy, relevance, and accessible journalism that keeps readers connected to the issues shaping the UK and beyond.