by David Wallace
A new study published in the European Journal of Haematology has uncovered a significant association between blood cancers known as myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) and an increased risk of dementia. This Danish population-based cohort study, spanning over two decades, provides valuable insights into the long-term neurological impacts of chronic blood cancers and inflammation on cognitive health.
Study Overview
- Analyzed data from 9,895 MPN patients and 95,770 matched individuals from the general population
- Utilized comprehensive Danish national health registries
- Follow-up period of up to 24 years
Key Findings
- MPN patients showed a 15% higher risk of developing dementia
- Men with MPNs had a 40% higher risk compared to a 2% increase in women
- Patients diagnosed with MPNs before age 65 had a 79% higher dementia risk
- Polycythemia vera (PV), a subtype of MPN, showed the strongest association with dementia
Potential Mechanisms
- Chronic inflammation caused by MPNs may reduce blood flow to the brain
- Animal studies have shown increased “stalled” blood flow in brain capillaries in MPN models
- Inflammation-driven comorbidities may contribute to cognitive decline
Implications and Future Directions
- Findings support the role of chronic inflammation in dementia development
- Suggests potential for screening dementia patients for MPN-related gene mutations
- Highlights the need for research on whether treating MPNs can lower dementia risk
- Emphasizes the importance of managing chronic inflammation in MPN patients
Study Limitations
- Unable to account for lifestyle factors like diet, smoking, and alcohol consumption
- Possible underdiagnosis of dementia in MPN patients due to symptom overlap
- Potential underestimation of true dementia risk due to statistical biases
Conclusion
This research provides compelling evidence for a link between myeloproliferative neoplasms and increased dementia risk, particularly in men and patients under the age of 65. While further studies are needed, these findings underscore the importance of considering the long-term neurological effects of chronic blood cancers and inflammation. Managing these conditions effectively may play a crucial role in preserving cognitive health as patients age.
We have covered a similar connection before in a previous article – MPN and Alzheimer’s: Is there a connection?
Reference
Sun, Y., Veres, K., Hasselbalch, H. C., Frederiksen, H., Østgård, L. S. G., Horváth-Puhó, E., Henderson, V. W., & Sørensen, H. T. (2024). Myeloproliferative Neoplasms and Dementia Risk: A Population-Based Cohort Study. European Journal of Haematology, 0, 1-12. https://doi.org/10.1111/ejh.14297
