engleski

ALCOHOL USE AND DEMENTIA: RISK OR BENEFIT?

In recent literature alcohol consumption is a controversially discussed risk factor for developing dementia, especially because some patterns of drinking have been associated with beneficial effects. Nevertheless, alcohol is a potential risk factor for the development of all types of dementia and cognitive impairment. The diagnosis of alcohol use disorder (AUD) is significantly associated with the development of dementia regardless of the age and the type of dementia. Also, the diagnosis of AUD has the highest risk of all modifiable risk factors for developing all forms of dementia. Research shows that 57% of patients suffering from early-onset dementia have AUD. The majority of studies observed a U-shaped relationship between regular alcohol consumption and cognitive functions. Frequent heavy consumption of alcohol alters brain functions and decreases cognitive performance while regular light and moderate consumption may have protective impact, most likely due to a positive effect on cardiovascular factors. The risk of cognitive impairment is mostly contributed by the habits and frequency of alcohol consumption, the volume fraction of alcohol in the drink, and dietary habits. Furthermore, in many studies total abstainers show an inferior cognitive performance than people with moderate or light alcohol consumption. Alcohol-related cognitive impairments include Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome (WKS) and alcohol- related dementia (ARD). Some recent investigations included ARD into a separate category of dementia, and also indicate the difference from WKS. ARD occurs in heavy drinkers, and cognitive impairment is greater than in WKS. Many dispute ARD as a separate category of dementia due to inconsistent diagnostic criteria. However, the prevalence of ARD is 25.6% in the population of patients diagnosed with AUD. Alcohol consumption and AUD are significant but still underestimated risk factor for the development of dementia. The effect of AUD specifically on dementia receive very little attention, although an association with an increased risk of cognitive decline is present. Screening for heavy drinking should be part of regular medical care, with intervention or treatment being offered when necessary. Further researches should focus on the specific prevention and treatment of ARD since it has potentially reversible course.

Alcohol use ; alcohol - related dementia ; cognitive impairment ; risk factors ; prevention

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