Call for National Campaign to Tackle Dementia Risk Gains Momentum
A leading dementia research charity has called on the UK Government to introduce a nationwide public health campaign aimed at reducing the risk of dementia, warning that too many people remain unaware that lifestyle changes can help protect brain health.
According to new findings from Alzheimer’s Research UK, there is a significant gap in public understanding about dementia prevention. While scientific efforts to find a cure continue, the charity stresses that everyday actions—such as staying physically active, maintaining a balanced diet and managing cardiovascular health—can play a meaningful role in lowering risk.
However, awareness of these preventative steps remains low. The charity’s report, Closing the Dementia Awareness Gap, reveals that only 30% of people surveyed recall seeing or hearing information about how to reduce their risk. Even more strikingly, just 39% believe that dementia risk can be reduced at all.
The findings are based on a nationwide poll of more than 5,000 adults, alongside a series of focus groups exploring public attitudes. For many respondents, dementia is still associated with inevitability and fear, rather than prevention or proactive health management.
The report highlights widespread public support for a government-backed awareness campaign, particularly one delivered through the NHS. Trust in healthcare professionals remains high, with more than four in five respondents identifying the NHS and GPs as their most reliable sources of health information.
This trust appears to translate into a desire for more structured guidance. Nearly 60% of respondents said they would like to receive advice on dementia risk reduction during NHS Health Checks. Yet, only 2% of those who had attended such checks reported any discussion of dementia prevention.
The charity argues that this represents a missed opportunity—particularly for people aged 45 to 64, when interventions to reduce long-term risk are likely to be most effective.
Respondents consistently favoured clear, positive messaging focused on practical, everyday steps. Rather than alarmist or overly clinical language, people expressed a preference for straightforward advice delivered through accessible formats such as checklists and repeated messaging.
To maximise reach, the report recommends a multi-channel approach. Younger adults are more likely to engage with content on social media, while older groups and those less confident online tend to prefer television and in-person communication. GP surgeries, community groups, and faith settings were also highlighted as trusted environments for sharing information.
Importantly, the campaign should not operate in isolation. Instead, it should be integrated into broader public health strategies, reinforcing messages about heart health, physical activity, and overall wellbeing.
Alzheimer’s Research UK believes that a coordinated national campaign could significantly improve understanding and empower individuals to take action. By clearly communicating that dementia is not an inevitable part of ageing, such an initiative could help shift public perception and encourage earlier lifestyle changes.
The charity is also calling for ongoing evaluation to ensure the campaign reaches diverse communities and delivers measurable impact. Regular monitoring would allow for adjustments to improve effectiveness and ensure equitable access to information.
