New Discoveries in the Secret to Beating Dementia

Are we evolving into a new era of human brain development? Recent findings from UC Davis Health suggest that the size of the human brain has been steadily increasing over the decades, a change that might be a shield against dementia.

Growing Brains Across Generations

A groundbreaking study from UC Davis Health reveals a fascinating trend: humans born after the 1930s have significantly larger brains. Those born in the 1970s boast brain volumes 6.6% larger and almost 15% greater brain surface areas than those born four decades earlier. The study's lead, Charles DeCarli, suggests that both genetics and improved health and social conditions contribute to this increase, potentially bolstering brain reserve against age-related diseases.

Implications for Dementia and Alzheimer's Risk

The rise in brain size correlates with a notable decline in the incidence of dementia. A previous study highlighted a 20% reduction per decade in the number of new dementia cases since the 1970s. DeCarli explains that larger brain structures could mean a more robust defense against the ravages of diseases like Alzheimer's, providing what he terms a "larger brain reserve" to buffer against these conditions.

Study Strengths and Limitations

The UC Davis study leverages data from the longstanding Framingham Heart Study, offering insights across nearly 80 years and three generations. While its findings are groundbreaking, the study acknowledges a limitation: its sample primarily comprises non-Hispanic, white participants, which is not representative of the U.S. population.

The Road Ahead in Dementia Research

This research opens new doors in our understanding of brain health and age-related dementia prevention. UC Davis Health's Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, a leader in this research area, continues to explore ways to translate these findings into practical strategies to diagnose, treat, and potentially prevent dementia in diverse populations.

"Genetics plays a major role in determining brain size, but our findings indicate external influences — such as health, social, cultural and educational factors — may also play a role," notes Charles DeCarli, a professor of neurology and director at UC Davis, in an interview for UC Davis Health News.

These research findings, as well as the general trend in increased brain size could herald a promising shift in our fight against age-related dementia, offering hope for future generations.

Reference: Human brains are getting larger. That may be good news for dementia risk