The Latest Medical News

A Summary of The Latest Medical News: **Regular Cycling May Lower Dementia and Alzheimer’s Risk, Large New Study Finds** A major new study has found that **people who regularly use bicycles for everyday transportation have a significantly lower risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease**. **Key Findings: Cycling Linked to Lower Dementia Risk** Researchers followed nearly half a million UK adults for over 13 years. The study showed that participants who primarily cycled as their mode of transport had a **19% reduced risk of all-cause dementia** and a **22% reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease**, compared with those who mainly used non-active methods like driving or public transportation[1][2][3]. **Who Participated in the Study** The study evaluated 479,723 participants, aged 40 to 69, sorting them into travel groups: non-active (car or public transit), walking, mixed walking/non-active, and predominantly cycling (alone or in combination with other methods)[3]. **How Cycling May Benefit Brain Health** Researchers highlight that the benefits of cycling likely result from its combination of **higher aerobic intensity and increased cognitive engagement**—activities like navigation and coordination on a bike are thought to stimulate the brain more than walking alone[3]. The study also found that those who used cycling to get around had **greater hippocampal volume** on brain imaging—an area of the brain closely tied to memory function and often affected early in dementia[2][4]. **Greatest Benefits for Young-Onset Dementia** The protective effect of cycling was most pronounced against **dementia occurring before age 65**, known as young-onset dementia. Cyclists had a **40% lower risk** for early dementia compared to non-cyclists[2]. **Genetic Factors May Affect Cycling’s Protective Effect** Researchers did note that **genetic factors, such as the APOE ε4 gene variant**—which increases Alzheimer’s risk—may modify the protective benefits of cycling. People without this genetic risk factor appeared to gain greater protection from cycling than those who carried it[2][4]. **Why This Matters for Public Health** Study authors emphasize that **active travel like cycling is a practical and widely adoptable form of exercise**. Adopting cycling for daily transportation could offer a simple and sustainable way for many people to reduce their risk of cognitive decline[3]. **Conclusion** Increasing your time spent cycling for everyday transportation—not just as exercise—could play a crucial role in lowering the risk of dementia and preserving brain health as you age. Help with your insurance? https://tally.so/r/n012P9