In a UCL study, nearly 6,000 people in Britain were followed for 25 years. However, those with high levels of troponin in their blood, meaning they were experiencing even small levels of heart damage, were the ones who were most likely to be affected.

If you notice any signs of damage or weakness in your heart during your middle age, between 35 and 45 years of age, be cautious. New research from University College London has revealed that heart damage in middle age has a direct impact on the brain in the long run. This research found that people with higher levels of troponin, a protein that indicates mild heart damage, had a 38 percent higher risk of developing dementia later in life.

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In a UCL study, nearly 6,000 people in Britain were followed for 25 years. Initially, none had heart disease or dementia. However, those with higher blood troponin levels, indicating even small levels of heart damage, were found to have a significantly higher risk of developing dementia later in life.

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According to the study, people with high troponin levels in mid-age had a 38 percent higher risk of developing dementia decades later. Surprisingly, this was evident even when they had no symptoms of forgetfulness or confusion.

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In fact, the troponin protein in the heart increases when the heart muscle is damaged. This reduces the heart's efficiency, which in turn reduces oxygen and blood flow to the brain. This results in brain cells and memory centers being affected over time. This is why heart disease is linked to brain disease.

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MRI scans of some of the participants in this study revealed that those with higher troponin levels had smaller hippocampi, the memory-related part of the brain, and less gray matter. These individuals' memory and thinking abilities had declined by one to two years compared to their age.

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Researchers say that heart health checkups are important not only for older adults but also for those between the ages of 35 and 60. Steps taken in midlife can protect brain health later in life.

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Experts advise that to avoid the risk of dementia, keep your blood pressure under control, maintain a balanced cholesterol level, exercise daily, avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and maintain a balanced diet.