Cynicism and the Brain: Suspicion Increases Risk of Dementia

Cynical people need to knock it off.

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Eastern Finland in Kuopio shows that constant cynicism can create critical health concerns, including the increased risk of heart disease and other medical issues. Researchers also found a significantly increased risk of dementia.

"These results add to the evidence that people's view on life and personality may have an impact on their health," said study author Anna-Maija Tolppanen, PhD, of the University of Eastern Finland in Kuopio, via a press release. "Understanding how a personality trait like cynicism affects risk for dementia might provide us with important insights on how to reduce risks for dementia."

For the study, researchers examined 1,449 people with an average age of 71. Participants underwent tests for dementia and were asked to fill out questionnaires regarding their level of cynicism. They were also asked about how much they agreed with certain statements, such as "I think most people would lie to get ahead," etc.

Participants were then grouped based on low, moderate and high levels of cynical distrust.

After accounting for other factors, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol and smoking, findings showed that high levels of cynical distrust triples the risk of dementia.

Study results also revealed that 14 out of 164 people with high levels of cynicism developed dementia compared to nine of the 212 with low levels of cynicism.

More information regarding the findings can be seen via the journal Neurology.