Anemia is a common condition, especially in older adults. It happens when the body does not have enough hemoglobin, a substance in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
Without enough oxygen, the body’s organs cannot work as well as they should. Many people think anemia only causes tiredness, weakness, or pale skin. However, new research shows that its effects may be much more serious, especially for the brain.
A large study carried out by researchers from Sweden and Italy has found that anemia may increase the risk of dementia in older adults. Dementia is a group of conditions that affect memory, thinking, and daily functioning. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia.
In this study, scientists followed 2,282 adults aged 60 and older who were living in Stockholm, Sweden. None of the participants had dementia at the beginning of the study. The researchers measured their hemoglobin levels and also checked for certain markers in the blood that are linked to brain damage and Alzheimer’s disease.
The participants were followed for more than ten years. During this time, the researchers checked their health every three to six years. By the end of the follow-up period, 362 people had developed dementia.
The results showed a clear pattern. People who had anemia at the start of the study were 66 percent more likely to develop dementia compared to those without anemia. This suggests that low hemoglobin levels may play an important role in brain health.
The researchers also found that people with anemia had higher levels of certain proteins in their blood. These proteins are known to be linked to Alzheimer’s disease and brain damage.
For example, higher levels of p-tau217 are associated with changes in the brain seen in Alzheimer’s disease. Another marker, called NfL, reflects damage to nerve cells. A third marker, GFAP, shows stress and inflammation in brain cells.
The risk was even higher in people who had both anemia and high levels of these markers. For instance, those with anemia and high NfL levels were more than three times as likely to develop dementia.
Scientists believe that one reason for this link is that anemia reduces the amount of oxygen reaching the brain. Over time, this may damage brain cells and blood vessels. Imaging studies have shown that people with anemia may have smaller brain volume and signs of tissue damage.
This study used data from the Swedish National Study on Aging and Care in Kungsholmen, a long-term project that tracks how people age. The findings were published in JAMA Network Open.
In reviewing the study, it has several strengths. It followed a large group of people over a long period, which makes the results more reliable. It also included detailed measurements of blood markers linked to brain health. However, the study shows a connection, not a direct cause. This means anemia may be one of several factors that increase the risk of dementia.
Another limitation is that most participants were older adults from one region, so the results may not apply to all populations. More studies are needed to confirm whether treating anemia can reduce the risk of dementia.
Even with these limits, the findings are important. Anemia is a condition that can often be treated. If future research confirms these results, checking and managing hemoglobin levels could become a simple way to protect brain health.
Overall, this study suggests that anemia is not just a minor condition. It may be an early warning sign for future brain problems. Paying attention to it could help people stay healthier as they age.
If you care about dementia, please read studies about dietary strategies to ward off dementia, and how omega-3 fatty acids fuel your mind.
For more health information, please see recent studies about Choline deficiency linked to Alzheimer’s disease, and what to eat (and avoid) for dementia prevention.
Source: Swedish National Study on Aging and Care.
