Adults who quit smoking had a 16% lower risk of developing dementia than people who continued to smoke, according to a large longitudinal study released Monday. Researchers said the cognitive protection associated with cessation persisted across years of follow-up, even among participants who quit later in life.
The analysis tracked tens of thousands of adults and compared dementia diagnoses with detailed smoking histories. Scientists accounted for age, education, alcohol use and cardiovascular disease, finding that former smokers still benefited relative to current smokers.
Public health officials said the results add to evidence that tobacco cessation programs should emphasize brain health alongside lung and heart outcomes. Quitting at any age appeared advantageous, though earlier cessation was linked to the strongest relative reductions.
Clinicians said the study supports routine dementia-risk discussions in primary care for smokers and recent quitters. Policy makers may weigh expanded access to cessation therapies as part of broader aging and chronic disease strategies.
Anti-smoking campaigns historically focused on cancer and heart disease; the dementia finding gives advocates additional messaging tools. Insurance plans that cover counseling and nicotine replacement could see renewed legislative interest. Researchers plan to study whether secondhand smoke exposure in childhood influences later cognitive outcomes among quitters and non-smokers alike.
Created by Ayen Stabel.
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Sources:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/news