Alzheimer's Society Comment On Whether Second-hand Smoke Is Linked To Cognitive Impairment

Main Category: Alzheimer's / Dementia
Article Date: 17 Feb 2009 - 0:00 PDT

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Research published in the British Medical Journal suggests second hand smoke may be linked to cognitive impairment.

'We've known for some time that smoking increases your risk of developing dementia. Now it seems that passive smoking could also have a harmful effect. One million people will develop dementia over the next ten years. It is important that smokers are supported to quit and the impact of second hand smoke is reduced.

Whilst we don't know what causes dementia there is increasing evidence that a healthy lifestyle can help reduce your risk of developing one of these devastating diseases. Giving up smoking; eating the right foods and getting plenty of exercise are simple steps you can take in the fight against dementia.

Sarah Day
Head of Public Health

Notes

Experts and people with dementia and carers available to interview on request.

- The paper 'Exposure to second hand smoke and cognitive impairment in non-smokers: national cross sectional study with continue measurement' will be published online at the British Medical Journal's website: http://www.bmj.com.br>
- 700,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than 20 years nearly a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051. 1 in 6 people over 80 have dementia.

- Alzheimer's Society campaigns for and champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions who care for them. Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

- As a charity, Alzheimer's Society needs to raise money to care for people today and to find a cure for tomorrow. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting http://www.alzheimers.org.uk.

- Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit http://www.alzheimers.org.uk

Alzheimer's Society