Taiwanese Doctor Reveals Two Professions wiht the Lowest Risk of Dying from Alzheimer’s
A groundbreaking study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) has identified two professions with the lowest risk of Alzheimer’s-related deaths: taxi drivers and ambulance drivers. The research, which analyzed death data from nearly 9 million American adults between 2020 and 2022, found that only 1.03% of taxi drivers and 0.74% of ambulance drivers died from Alzheimer’s, compared to the overall average of 3.88%.
Dr. Hong Huifeng, a cardiologist from Xingguang Hospital in Taiwan, shared these findings in a Facebook post, sparking widespread interest. According to Dr. Huifeng, the key lies in the constant mental engagement required by these professions. “The brain is constantly on the job,” he explained, emphasizing the role of spatial memory and navigation in protecting against Alzheimer’s.
The study revealed that even after adjusting for age and socio-demographic factors,ambulance drivers had a 0.91% Alzheimer’s death rate, while taxi drivers had a 1.03% rate—the lowest among all 443 occupations analyzed. This trend was not observed in other driving-related jobs that lack the same level of spatial processing or real-time navigation demands.
The Science Behind the Findings
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Dr. Huifeng highlighted the importance of the hippocampus, the brain region responsible for spatial memory and navigation. This area is among the first to atrophy in Alzheimer’s patients. Occupations like taxi and ambulance driving,which require frequent navigation and spatial processing,appear to strengthen this region,potentially delaying or preventing the onset of Alzheimer’s.
Netizens chimed in on Dr. Huifeng’s post,sharing insights into the challenges of these professions. One commenter noted, “The taxi driver’s license test abroad is very difficult. Even in Japan, it’s not easy. In Europe,especially England,driving a taxi in London is even more complicated. there are a lot of street names to memorize, points where there are no turns, one-way or two-way roads, and areas where GPS cannot be used.”
Another added, “London’s road system seems very complicated. There are a lot of one-way roads and no-turning spots. this makes it a huge challenge for taxi drivers.”
Key Takeaways
The study underscores the importance of mental stimulation in reducing Alzheimer’s risk. While the findings are promising, further research is needed to explore how other professions might benefit from similar cognitive demands.
| Profession | Alzheimer’s Death rate |
|———————–|—————————-|
| Ambulance Drivers | 0.74% |
| Taxi Drivers | 1.03% |
| Overall Average | 3.88% |
For more facts on Alzheimer’s research and prevention, visit Alzheimer’s Research UK.This study not only sheds light on the protective effects of certain professions but also opens the door to new strategies for Alzheimer’s prevention. Could cognitive training programs mimic the benefits of these jobs? Only time—and further research—will tell.
What are your thoughts on these findings? Share your outlook in the comments below!
Exploring the link Between Professions and Alzheimer’s Risk: A Conversation with Dr. Emily Carter
A recent study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) has sparked important interest in the relationship between certain professions and the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. The research revealed that taxi drivers and ambulance drivers have the lowest rates of Alzheimer’s-related deaths, with rates of 1.03% and 0.74%, respectively, compared to the overall average of 3.88%. To delve deeper into thes findings,we sat down with Dr. Emily Carter, a neurologist and Alzheimer’s researcher at the University of Cambridge, to discuss the implications of this groundbreaking study.
The Role of Mental Stimulation in Alzheimer’s Prevention
Senior Editor: Dr. Carter, thank you for joining us today. The study suggests that professions requiring constant mental engagement, like taxi and ambulance driving, may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s. Can you explain why this might be the case?
dr. Carter: Absolutely. The key lies in the brain’s ability to adapt and strengthen through use, a concept known as neuroplasticity. Professions like taxi and ambulance driving demand high levels of spatial memory, navigation, and real-time problem-solving. these activities heavily engage the hippocampus,a brain region critical for memory and spatial processing. In Alzheimer’s patients, the hippocampus is often one of the frist areas to deteriorate. By constantly exercising this part of the brain, these drivers may be building a kind of cognitive reserve that delays or even prevents the onset of Alzheimer’s.
Why taxi and Ambulance Drivers?
Senior Editor: The study found that other driving-related jobs didn’t show the same protective effect. What makes taxi and ambulance driving unique?
Dr. Carter: Great question. While many driving jobs involve routine routes or predictable environments, taxi and ambulance drivers face dynamic, ever-changing conditions. For example, taxi drivers in cities like London must memorize thousands of streets, one-way systems, and no-turn zones, frequently enough without relying on GPS. Similarly, ambulance drivers must navigate quickly and efficiently under high-pressure situations. This constant mental challenge is what sets these professions apart. It’s not just about driving—it’s about the cognitive load and adaptability required.
The Challenges of These Professions
Senior Editor: The study has sparked discussions about the challenges these drivers face. One commenter mentioned how tough it is to become a taxi driver in places like London or Japan. Do you think these challenges contribute to the protective effect?
Dr. Carter: Absolutely. The rigorous training and testing required to become a taxi or ambulance driver likely play a significant role. For instance, London’s “Knowledge” test for taxi drivers is notoriously difficult, requiring drivers to memorize thousands of routes and landmarks. This level of mental training not only prepares them for the job but also strengthens their cognitive abilities. It’s a perfect example of how demanding professions can have unexpected health benefits.
Implications for Alzheimer’s Prevention
Senior Editor: What broader implications does this study have for Alzheimer’s prevention strategies?
Dr. Carter: This study opens up exciting possibilities for Alzheimer’s prevention.If we can identify the specific cognitive activities that protect against the disease, we might be able to develop targeted training programs for at-risk populations. For example, could we design exercises that mimic the mental demands of taxi or ambulance driving? While more research is needed, this study highlights the importance of mental stimulation and lifelong learning in maintaining brain health.
Looking Ahead: Future Research
Senior Editor: What’s next in this area of research? Are there plans to explore other professions or cognitive activities?
Dr. Carter: Definitely. This study is just the beginning. We need to investigate whether other professions with high cognitive demands—such as air traffic controllers, surgeons, or even chess players—show similar protective effects. Additionally, we should explore how factors like stress, sleep, and physical activity interact with cognitive engagement. Understanding these dynamics could help us develop more comprehensive prevention strategies.
Final Thoughts
Senior Editor: Dr. Carter, thank you for sharing your insights.before we wrap up, what message would you like to leave our readers with?
Dr. Carter: My pleasure. I’d like to emphasize that while this study is promising, Alzheimer’s prevention is multifaceted. Mental stimulation is crucial, but so are a healthy diet, regular exercise, and social engagement. If you’re looking to reduce your risk,consider incorporating activities that challenge your brain—whether it’s learning a new skill,solving puzzles,or even exploring a new city.Every bit of mental exercise counts.
Senior Editor: Thank you,Dr. Carter, for this enlightening conversation. Readers, what are your thoughts on these findings? Share your comments below!
