General health is associated with a risk of Alzheimer's and dementia.

Health problems and lifestyle features can increase the likelihood of memory impairment in young active people 18-39 years old..

There are many studies that have linked physical health problems and early cognitive decline..

Over the past few months, American and British publications have published a number of articles in which scientists associate narrowing of the cerebral arteries with impaired memory, and also prove that mental abilities are better for people who are physically fit..

A new study at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) suggests that young people should have a medical examination for memory problems.. The results of this work are presented in the online edition of PLOS ONE.

The researchers included 18 552 participants aged 18 to 99 years in the analysis.. Scientists analyzed their memory indicators, and then compared the results with lifestyle factors and health status.. They used telephone interviews for research.. The main emphasis was placed on factors that increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease and diabetes - depression, diabetes, obesity, smoking, low educational level, etc..

It was found that most of these factors increase the risk of memory impairment, and in all age groups. 20% of respondents complained of memory problems: 14% of young people under 39 years old, 22% of middle-aged people (40-59 years old) and 26% of elderly people (60-99 years old).

Most significant risk factor.

So, among the risk factors that lead to memory problems were:.

•Depression.

• Low level of education.

• Lack of physical activity.

•High blood pressure.

But in all age groups, depression was the most significant factor..

Dr. Gary Small, UCLA professor and director of the University's Longevity Center, was the lead author of the study.. He was surprised to learn how often young people find memory impairments..

The professor also noted that according to modern concepts, education is an element of the so-called “cognitive reserve”, which allows the brain to function effectively even after certain injuries. His team believes that getting an education will be beneficial for the brain at any age..

There is one limitation in the study.. Scientists say that memory problems in young people may not be exactly the same as in older people. They found that constant stress and multitasking (due to the use of computer technology) affect the attentiveness of young people, and it is more difficult for an inattentive person to remember some things.

Scientists hope that their results will draw public attention to the role of these factors at any age..

Dr.

Stephen Chen, co-author of the study and professor of clinical psychiatry at the Semel Institute, offers the following measures for those who do not want to lose their cognitive abilities ahead of time:.

• Check for depression.

• Monitor blood pressure.

• Stay physically active.

• Get involved in education.

Commenting on the results of his colleagues, Professor Fernando Torres-Gil from the Laskin School of Public Relations at UCLA, told reporters what should be the next step: “We plan to use the results in future work, in which we will try to find ways.

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