People who smoke, have high blood pressure or diabetes in middle age are more likely to develop dementia later in life, according to researchers.

The BBC reported Aug. 3 that smoking before age 55 increases the risk of dementia by a factor of five, for example. Researchers said smoking, hypertension and diabetes all can damage the brain and the blood vessels that supply the brain.

"Our results emphasize the importance of early lifestyle modification and risk factor treatment to prevent dementia," according to the researchers.

"There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that looking after our hearts may be the most effective way to reduce dementia risk," said Rebecca Wood, chief executive of the U.K. Alzheimer's Research Trust. "Although this latest research recommends mid-life as a critical time to change our lifestyles, it's never too early, or late, to take steps towards improving heart-health. We should all consider stopping smoking, taking regular exercise and adopting a healthy, Mediterranean-style diet."

The findings were based on a study of more than 11,000 people. The study was slated to be published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry.