Study Links Metabolic Health to Risk of Early-Onset Dementia

A new study suggests that how individuals manage metabolic syndrome—a cluster of common health conditions—may significantly influence their risk of developing dementia at a younger age, CNN reports.

Researchers found that people with metabolic syndrome were 24% more likely to experience young-onset dementia, which occurs before age 65.

Metabolic syndrome is diagnosed when a person has at least three of the following risk factors: a large waistline, elevated blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, elevated triglycerides, and low HDL (“good”) cholesterol. Each of these components, researchers say, is independently associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline.

Dr. Minwoo Lee, the study’s lead author and an assistant professor of neurology at Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital in South Korea, emphasized the importance of early intervention.

“Our findings highlight the importance of managing metabolic health early to potentially prevent dementia and maintain brain health,” he said.

The study analyzed health data from nearly 2 million people in South Korea, using records from the Korean National Health Insurance Service. Researchers tracked metabolic health markers and dementia diagnoses between 2009 and 2020. The findings were published in the journal Neurology.

Experts caution, however, that while the study shows a strong correlation, it does not prove that metabolic syndrome causes dementia. Dr. Richard Isaacson, a preventive neurologist not involved in the study, noted that more research is needed to understand the relationship.

“I don’t really think metabolic syndrome causes Alzheimer’s disease, but I think it can fast-forward someone towards it,” he explained.

Approximately one-third of US adults have metabolic syndrome, according to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, indicating that a substantial portion of the population may face elevated dementia risk if similar patterns hold true outside South Korea.

Isaacson emphasized that although genetics play a role in dementia, lifestyle choices can make a meaningful difference.

“Some people say young-onset dementia is preordained, but I don’t agree with that. These lifestyle factors are nontrivial,” he said.

He encouraged people of all ages to prioritize brain health through proactive choices.

Metabolic syndrome may contribute to brain decline by increasing inflammation, disrupting blood flow to the brain, or impairing energy metabolism—factors that collectively can influence cognitive function. Efficient vascular function is critical to maintaining brain health, as it ensures consistent oxygen and nutrient delivery.

Preventive cardiologist Dr. Pam Taub from the University of California San Diego added that managing metabolic syndrome often begins with lifestyle adjustments. These include adopting a balanced diet, increasing physical activity, improving sleep, and managing stress. Some studies, including her own, have shown that time-restricted eating can help manage components of metabolic syndrome.

In some cases, medications may be necessary in conjunction with lifestyle changes.

“It’s really not one or the other,” Taub said. “You have to synergize both lifestyle and pharmacology.”