Sleep habits may raise dementia risk - and researchers are closer to understanding how.

Neuroscientists David Earnest and Karienn A. De Souza explain that genetics may account for only a small portion of Alzheimer's risk, while lifestyle factors—especially chronic sleep and circadian rhythm disruption—could play a major role. Their research suggests that long-term irregular sleep patterns, such as shift work, can trigger inflammation, alter brain immune cells, and increase the risk of cognitive decline and dementia later in life. They recommend maintaining consistent sleep schedules and minimizing circadian disruption whenever possible.