Summary and Final Comments
Dementia is, as yet, an incurable disease. There is evidence however to support the idea that targeting the vascular component of the disease with preventative measures may delay the onset of the condition. Translational research involving relevant medical specialties is essential to solving the difficult problem posed by dementia. Vascular risk factor detection, preventative measures and the identification of therapeutic targets during the early stages of life may represent an effective strategy to prevent or delay the onset of cognitive decline and dementia later on. Further research is required to understand the molecular mechanisms of the disease and this will provide the basis for the development of rational treatments.