- A new study suggests that quitting smoking may be associated with a lower risk of dementia and slower cognitive decline over time.
- The researchers found that the participants who quit smoking had a 16% lower risk of dementia compared with people who continued smoking.
- The cognitive benefits of quitting smoking were strongest among people who gained little or no weight after quitting.
Quitting smoking cigarettes can reduce the risk of many health conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and stroke. A new study suggests that smoking cessation may also support long-term brain health.
The study followed more than 32,000 adults in the United States for up to 25 years to examine the connection between smoking habits, post-cessation weight changes, and cognitive health.
The researchers found an association between smoking cessation and a lower risk of developing dementia. They also found that these people experienced slower rates of cognitive decline compared with people who continued smoking.
The study is published in Neurology.
Team Health Accessible
Health & Wellness Editorial Team
HealthAccessible editorial team delivers trusted, accessible, and evidence-based health information for everyone.
