As though suffering a stroke isn’t bad enough, a new study has shown that people who survive one are twice as likely to develop dementia. Data from 3.2 million people – the largest study ever done on stroke and dementia – suggests the damage done by a stroke seriously raises the risk of getting dementia. The new study by researchers at Exeter University found that even after blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and diabetes are taken into account, having a stroke increases the risk of dementia by up to 100%, meaning strokes double the risk. Researchers found the period immediately after a stroke carries the highest risk of developing dementia. But it can persist for years. Researcher Dr Ilianna Lourida, of the University of Exeter Medical School, said: “We found that a history of stroke increases dementia risk by around 70%, and recent strokes more than doubled the risk. Given how common stroke and dementia are this strong link is an important finding.” Published in Daily Times, October 15th 2018.