New 21-Point Brain Care Score Aims to Prevent Dementia, Stroke, and Depression

A new tool called the McCance Brain Care Score (BCS) helps people protect their brain health by focusing on lifestyle and medical factors. Developed by researchers from Mass General Brigham’s McCance Center for Brain Health and Yale University, this tool could reduce the risk of dementia, stroke, and depression. The study findings were published in Frontiers in Psychiatry.

A Simple Path to Better Brain Health

Dr. Jonathan Rosand, co-founder of the McCance Center, stressed the benefits of improving BCS. “Raising your score can strengthen brain health and reduce risks of diseases like dementia and stroke. It may also protect against depression,” he said.

Dr. Christopher D. Anderson, chief of stroke and cerebrovascular disease at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, agreed. “This study shows a powerful opportunity to prevent these conditions before they start,” he noted.

Alarming Statistics

Brain disorders are on the rise:

• 5.8 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s disease, according to the CDC.
• Stroke rates among adults aged 18-45 are increasing, reports the American Heart Association.
• In 2021, 14.5 million U.S. adults experienced a major depressive episode, says the National Institute of Mental Health.

How the Brain Care Score Works

The BCS focuses on 12 changeable factors in three areas:

• Physical Health: Keep blood pressure, cholesterol, hemoglobin A1C, and body mass index within healthy ranges.
• Lifestyle: Eat well, limit alcohol, avoid smoking, stay active, and get quality sleep.
• Social and Emotional Well-being: Manage stress, maintain relationships, and find personal purpose.

Researchers analyzed data from over 350,000 people in the U.K. Biobank to validate the score. A 5-point increase in BCS was linked to a 33% lower risk of late-life depression and a 27% lower risk of dementia, stroke, and depression over 13 years. Even adults under 50 showed reduced depression risk with a higher BCS.

A Healthier Future Starts Today

By making small, everyday changes, you can protect your brain health and reduce future risks. The earlier you start, the greater the long-term benefits.