All articles tagged with #lifestyle factors
A Lund University study links modifiable lifestyle and health factors—such as smoking, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol—to brain changes associated with Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. The research also notes diabetes is tied to amyloid-β accumulation and lower BMI to tau changes, highlighting that healthier habits might delay dementia onset, though findings require further validation.
A global analysis of 1990–2023 data from 200+ countries (Lancet Oncology/Global Burden of Disease) finds about 28% of healthy life years lost to breast cancer are attributable to modifiable lifestyle factors, led by red meat intake and smoking, with additional contributions from high blood sugar, high BMI, alcohol, and low physical activity. Global new cases are projected to rise from 2.3 million in 2023 to over 3.5 million by 2050. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle could prevent more than a quarter of breast-cancer–related healthy life years lost. In the UK, roughly one in seven women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, and the burden is increasingly shifting to lower-income countries due to later diagnosis and access gaps.
A UK Biobank study of over 322,000 adults followed for ~14 years finds definite evening chronotypes (night owls) have worse cardiovascular health and a higher risk of heart attack or stroke than intermediate sleepers, with about three-quarters of the excess risk explained by lifestyle factors such as smoking, sleep quality, physical activity, and diet; biology and genetics linked to circadian rhythms may also play a role, and the study notes potential sex differences. For night owls, improving sleep, quitting smoking, exercising, and healthier eating could help reduce risk, though more research is needed.
A UK Biobank study of about 323,000 adults found night owls have a 16% higher risk of heart attack or stroke than early birds; most of this link is tied to modifiable lifestyle factors and circadian misalignment, suggesting that aligning sleep, meals, and activity with a later schedule and following Life’s Essential 8 can mitigate risk without forcing an early bedtime.
Rising cases of kidney problems among young Malaysians are linked to lifestyle choices such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and untreated health conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. Experts warn that habits like overusing painkillers, consuming energy drinks, and dehydration contribute to early kidney failure, which is preventable through regular health checks and healthier habits.
A comprehensive review highlights that alcohol consumption increases the risk of various cancers, with higher risks among certain groups such as African Americans, those with genetic predispositions, and individuals with obesity or diabetes. The study emphasizes moderation, healthy lifestyle choices, and targeted public health policies to reduce alcohol-related cancer burden.
Research indicates that controllable lifestyle factors such as managing stress, getting quality sleep, maintaining a healthy weight, and fostering social connections can help keep the brain younger, with MRI-based estimates showing brains of individuals practicing these habits appearing up to 8 years younger and aging more slowly over time.
Many people with low vitamin D levels despite supplements may have underlying issues such as poor absorption, inadequate dosing, or lifestyle factors like insufficient sunlight and diet. Experts recommend personalized target ranges, proper supplement forms like D3, taking supplements with fats, and increasing natural sunlight exposure, while addressing gut health and medication effects to improve vitamin D status.
A global review found that the prevalence of high blood pressure in children and teenagers nearly doubled over 20 years, primarily driven by obesity, unhealthy diets, and inactivity, affecting 114 million young people and posing serious lifelong health risks. Experts emphasize the importance of early detection, healthy habits, and policy measures to combat this rising health concern.
Miscarriage affects up to 26% of pregnancies and can be caused by genetic, hormonal, uterine, lifestyle, and age-related factors. Understanding these causes and adopting healthy lifestyle practices, along with medical and emotional support, can improve chances of a healthy pregnancy after a loss.
Dr. Jeremy London emphasizes four key lifestyle factors—avoiding smoking, managing cholesterol, controlling blood sugar, and monitoring blood pressure—as crucial for preventing heart disease, highlighting the importance of healthy daily habits over medical interventions.
A study suggests that lack of discretionary time, or 'time poverty,' may increase dementia risk by limiting individuals' ability to engage in healthy behaviors like exercise, socializing, and proper sleep. Addressing 'temporal inequity' through community support and policy changes is crucial for dementia prevention, especially among disadvantaged groups.
Children are increasingly affected by high cholesterol levels due to sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy diets, which can lead to serious health issues like heart disease and diabetes if left unchecked. Experts recommend a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and routine check-ups to manage and prevent this trend.
High blood pressure, often asymptomatic, can lead to serious health issues and is caused by factors like excessive processed food intake, alcohol consumption, inactivity, stress, sleep apnea, other health conditions, medications, and genetics. Lifestyle modifications such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management, and avoiding excess salt and alcohol can help control or prevent high blood pressure.
A recent study finds a significant rise in severe diverticulitis cases among Americans under 50 over the past two decades, with unclear causes but potential links to lifestyle and dietary factors, highlighting the need for further research.