A doctor has revealed the “most overlooked” risk factor for dementia. Doctor Amir Khan, who is known for his appearances on ITV, claimed that it is possible to reduce your risk of cognitive decline by as much as 60 per cent.

Speaking on his No Appointment Necessary podcast, Dr Amir explained more about the link between hearing loss and dementia. He told co-host Cherry Healey: “Hearing loss in midlife has been associated with an up to four times increased risk of developing dementia.

“Because, when you can focus a lot on the hearing that comes at the expense of other parts of your brain. So over time, that increases your risk of dementia.” He added that other lifestyle factors can also impact your chances of developing dementia.

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Dr Amir said: “If people looked at how much they were moving, how well they were sleeping, what food they were eating and got their eyes and ears checked on a regular basis they can reduce their risk of dementia by 60 per cent.”

His advice is supported by studies which have indicated that untreated hearing loss is the most significant modifiable risk factor for dementia. Alzheimer's Research UK suggests that if everyone took measures to prevent or manage hearing loss, there would be seven fewer cases of dementia per 100 people who currently develop it.

And a major study by The Lancet Commission on Dementia identified midlife hearing loss as the largest modifiable risk factor for dementia - surpassing smoking, social isolation, or lack of exercise. Further research published by The Lancet revealed that people at increased risk of cognitive decline who also used hearing aids had a 48 per cent lower risk of progressing from mild cognitive impairment to dementia.

It is thought that this is due to the fact that coping with untreated hearing loss puts additional pressure on the brain, making it more challenging to follow conversations, especially in loud environments. As time passes, this increased mental burden can result in social withdrawal, loneliness, and diminished quality of life.

Through reducing the effort required to listen, hearing aids help people remain engaged, socially connected, and physically active.

The additional dementia risk factors highlighted by The Lancet include:

• Being less educated


• High blood pressure


• Obesity


• Smoking


• Depression


• Social isolation


• Physical inactivity


• Diabetes


• Alcohol excess


• Traumatic brain injury


• Air pollution

In the UK, more than 18 million people (one in three) suffer from some form of hearing loss, yet many wait an average of 10 years before seeking help, with around three million living with untreated hearing loss. Meanwhile, dementia affects nearly one million people in the UK and is the leading cause of death nationwide, according to the Office for National Statistics.

If you notice someone exhibiting symptoms of dementia, it's advisable to consult a doctor.