Medical Minute: Signs Of Early-Onset Dementia

Young-onset dementia, also called early-onset dementia, affects more than 300 thousand Americans. And it strikes during the prime of their lives.

]In a new study published in JAMA Neurology, researchers identified risk factors that are linked to young-onset dementia: Heart disease, a previous stroke, or an alcohol use disorder were strong predictors of young-onset dementia. Carrying specific gene mutations was also a major risk factor.

Being socially isolated was another key risk factor for dementia. So not getting enough vitamin D. And for men, having diabetes was strongly associated with developing the disease. Some other possible culprits were: Having a less formal education, a lower socioeconomic status, depression, poor handgrip strength, and hearing impairment. Doctors hope identifying these warning signs earlier may allow them to treat the disease before it has gone too far.

Helping you identify risk factors for young-onset dementia.