Dementia risk and protective factors are closely linked to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and behavioural risk factors. Addressing dementia risk reduction requires action in multiple disciplines and sectors. First, dementia risk reduction should be linked with other programmes, policies, and campaigns on NCDs. Second, evidence-based risk reduction interventions should be developed, delivered and promoted within primary care settings. Both actions will require widespread availability of training and education on dementia risk reduction for the health workforce. The Global dementia action plan recognizes the inherent links between dementia and other NCDs by linking its global target 3 directly to the Global action plan for prevention and control of non-communicable diseases 2013-2020 and any future revisions.

 

The GDO measures dementia risk reduction efforts by collecting information on the availability, coverage, and management of dementia risk reduction campaigns, as well as the inclusion of risk reduction knowledge as a core competency in the training of healthcare professionals. The GDO also tracks the prevalence of dementia risk factors, often associated with other NCDs.  Moreover, through the GDO, information is collected regarding the inclusion of all action areas into available dementia plans, including risk reduction.