Clinical Guidelines

Lead Exposure Implicated in Rising Alzheimer's Rates

US study finds that patients with high bone lead levels are three times more likely to develop the disease

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  • February 19, 2026

  • 2 min

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Research published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia reveals a correlation between higher cumulative lead exposure and an elevated risk of Alzheimer’s disease and all-cause dementia. Analyzing data from the NHANES, the study found that individuals with high patella bone lead levels had nearly threefold risk for Alzheimer’s compared to those with low exposure. Notably, blood lead levels did not correlate with dementia risk, indicating that cumulative bone lead over decades poses a significant threat. These findings suggest reducing lead levels could help prevent a substantial number of dementia cases in the aging US population.

Original Source(s)

Lead Exposure Implicated in Rising Alzheimer's Rates

US study finds that patients with high bone lead levels are three times more likely to develop the disease

  • February 19, 2026

  • 2 min

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