Long-Term Anti-Inflammatory Use Linked to Lower Dementia Risk: Study

New Delhi: A recent study suggests that prolonged use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may reduce the risk of developing dementia. Published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, the study examined 11,745 adults over an average follow-up period of 14.5 years. Among them, 9,520 had used NSAIDs at some point, and 2,091 developed dementia.

Led by M. Arfan Ikram from Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam in the Netherlands, the research found that long-term NSAID use was linked to a 12% lower risk of dementia. However, short- and intermediate-term use did not provide the same protective effects, and the total cumulative dose of NSAIDs was not significantly associated with dementia risk reduction.

“Our study provides evidence on possible preventive effects of anti-inflammatory medication against the dementia process,” Ikram stated, emphasizing the need for further research to confirm these findings and explore preventive strategies.

The study builds on prior research suggesting that inflammation plays a role in the development and progression of dementia. By reducing inflammation, NSAIDs could potentially offer neuroprotective benefits. Dementia currently affects more than 55 million people worldwide, with nearly 10 million new cases reported annually, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). It is the seventh leading cause of death and a major factor in disability among older adults.

In addition to NSAIDs, other recent studies have suggested that antibiotics, antivirals, and vaccinations may also lower dementia risk. A large-scale study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: Translational Research & Clinical Interventions analyzed health data from over 130 million individuals, supporting the hypothesis that common dementias may be linked to bacterial or viral infections.

Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, accounts for 60-70% of cases. With dementia rates rising globally, researchers stress the importance of continued investigation into anti-inflammatory treatments and other potential preventive measures to combat this growing public health challenge.