Study: African American Teens Are Exposed to More Dementia Risk Factors Than White Teens

A study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology suggests that African American teenagers may be at a higher risk of dementias and other types of cognitive decline later in life than whites, reports Being Patient . This is because they are more likely to be exposed to various risk factors, including cardiovascular disease like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. African American teens also are more disproportionately affected by social factors such as access to quality education. These findings suggest that practicing heart- and brain-healthy activities is critical not only for middle-aged adults, but also for young adults and adolescents who are more vulnerable to deficient vascular brain health later. "Research like this is important in addressing health inequities and providing resources that could make a positive impact on a person's life," said Alzheimer's Association Chief Science Officer Maria C. Carrillo.