Abnormally high levels of HDL cholesterol, known as ‘good cholesterol’, could increase the risk of dementia in older people.
- Abnormally high levels of HDL cholesterol are associated with an increased risk of dementia in older adults.
- On average, they increase the risk of dementia by 27%.
- Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms at play.
Cholesterol HDL helps capture cholesterol LDL in excess, known to increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, and to lead it to the liver so that it is eliminated with the bile. These properties have earned it the nickname good cholesterol. However, a new study led by researchers at the University Monash shows that its excess can also be problematic for cognitive health.
Good cholesterol and dementia: an unexpected correlation
According to work published in the journal Tea Lancet Regional Health – Western Pacific, the good chloresterol could be associated with an increased risk of dementia in older people. The researchers reached this conclusion after examining the medical records of 18,668 healthy seniors at the start of the study launched in 2010. Over an average follow-up period of 6.3 years, participants with lower cholesterol levels HDL very high (i.e. greater than 80 mg/dL or 2.07 mmol/L) at the start of the study, had a 27% increased risk of dementia compared to those with an optimal rate. In participants aged over 75, this risk was even 42% higher.
For the record, the optimal cholesterol level HDL has been established at 40 to 50 mg/dL (1.03 to 1.55 mmol/L) for men and 50 to 60 mg/dL (1.55 to 2.07 mmol/L) for women. The latter is generally beneficial for heart health.
Excess cholesterol HDL : new research to update the mechanisms
For the researchers, the results of their work could help improve our understanding of the mechanisms causing dementia. “It could be beneficial to take into account cholesterol levels HDL very high in dementia risk prediction algorithms”notes Dr. Monira Hussainfirst author of the study and principal investigator in the University’s School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine Monash.
The scientist nevertheless adds in a communicated : “Although we know that cholesterol HDL is important for cardiovascular health, this study suggests that we need further research to understand the role of cholesterol HDL very high in the context of brain health.”
