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BMC Geriatrics
Published in: BMC Geriatrics 1/2008

Open Access 01-12-2008 | Research article

Smoking, dementia and cognitive decline in the elderly, a systematic review

Authors: Ruth Peters, Ruth Poulter, James Warner, Nigel Beckett, Lisa Burch, Chris Bulpitt

Published in: BMC Geriatrics | Issue 1/2008

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Abstract

Background

Nicotine may aid reaction time, learning and memory, but smoking increases cardiovascular risk. Cardiovascular risk factors have been linked to increased risk of dementia. A previous meta-analysis found that current smokers were at higher risk of subsequent dementia, Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia and cognitive decline.

Methods

In order to update and examine this further a systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out using different search and inclusion criteria, database selection and more recent publications. Both reviews were restricted to those aged 65 and over.

Results

The review reported here found a significantly increased risk of Alzheimer's disease with current smoking and a likely but not significantly increased risk of vascular dementia, dementia unspecified and cognitive decline. Neither review found clear relationships with former smoking.

Conclusion

Current smoking increases risk of Alzheimer's disease and may increase risk of other dementias. This reinforces need for smoking cessation, particularly aged 65 and over. Nicotine alone needs further investigation.
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
Smoking, dementia and cognitive decline in the elderly, a systematic review
Authors
Ruth Peters
Ruth Poulter
James Warner
Nigel Beckett
Lisa Burch
Chris Bulpitt
Publication date
01-12-2008
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
BMC Geriatrics / Issue 1/2008
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2318
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2318-8-36

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