Smoking's Shocking Effect on Brain Shrinkage – New Study Highlights Dementia Risks

Washington University researchers have linked smoking to significant brain shrinkage and accelerated aging.

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The study, published in Biological Psychiatry: Global Open Science, exposes smoking's dire impact on brain volume.

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Dr. Laura J. Bierut emphasized the overlooked effects of smoking on brain health.

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Over 32,000 individuals were analyzed, revealing a dose-dependent relationship between smoking and brain volume reduction.

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Even after quitting, the brain damage from smoking was found to be irreversible.

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The study used mediation analysis to trace the sequence from genetic predisposition to smoking, leading to decreased brain volume.

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This research is crucial as both aging and smoking are key risk factors for dementia.

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The findings shift the focus from respiratory and cardiovascular risks to significant brain health impacts.

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