Photo: New GP guidelines could significantly reduce dementia rates in Australia New guidelines have been issued for Australian GPs that could help reduce dementia rates nationally. The Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention has found that around 15 per cent of dementia cases globally could be prevented by making straightforward GP-recommended changes, such as reducing blood pressure or increasing physical activity. More than 500,000 people in Australia have dementia and there are around 110,000 new diagnoses each year. “Many Australians don’t realise they can effectively reduce their risk of developing dementia. These guidelines will equip GPs with evidence-based guidance on modifiable risk factors in mid and late life,” said Professor Kaarin Anstey, a Senior Principal Researcher at Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA) and UNSW. The risk factors covered by the guidelines include diet, alcohol consumption, physical activity, smoking, social engagement, sleep, obesity and medical conditions. The guidelines have been developed by […]