The Blackfriars Consensus on brain health and dementia

Action on the same behavioural and intermediate risk factors for NCDs (including tobacco, poor diet, physical inactivity, and alcohol) and consequent reductions in raised blood pressure, blood cholesterol, obesity, and diabetes could prevent between 3% and 20% of predicted new cases of dementia in 20 years.3,4 These gains are likely to be greater if combined with action to protect brain health throughout life--including addressing alcohol and substance abuse and head injuries in adolescents and young people; supporting lifelong learning and improved workplace health in middle life; and improving social interactions, stimulation, and supportive care in later life.