A recent study analyzed data from nearly 280,918 participants in the U.K. Biobank, all approximately 57 years old and free of dementia at the study's start.

Over an average follow-up period of 14 years, 4,770 participants developed dementia, highlighting the long-term risks associated with biological aging.

Research indicates that individuals with a biological age older than their chronological age face up to a 35% increased risk of developing dementia, independent of other factors.

Biological age was assessed using two methods: the Klemera-Doubal Method Biological Age (KDM-BA) and the PhenoAge algorithm, which utilize blood test results and clinical data.

The study found that every standard deviation increase in biological aging correlated with a 14% risk increase for KDM-BA and a 15% increase for PhenoAge measurements.

Significant changes in brain regions related to memory and decision-making were identified as key factors linking biological aging to dementia.

Lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and stress management may slow biological aging and reduce dementia risk, suggesting potential preventive strategies.

Participants in the study tended to be more health-conscious than the general population, indicating that lifestyle changes could influence biological age.

Dr. John Thomson Smith noted that tracking biological age can enhance understanding of health and aging, leading to personalized treatment plans.

Despite a 13% decline in dementia incidence per decade due to improved health factors, the total number of dementia cases is rising as the population ages, straining healthcare resources.

Lead researcher Dr. Yacong Bo emphasized the importance of identifying risk factors and implementing preventive measures as the global impact of dementia continues to rise.

While the study shows a significant association between biological age and dementia risk, it does not establish causation, indicating the need for further research.