Infographic – Brain health is shaped by complex interactions between biological, environmental and social factors

The brain supports many essential functions ranging from cognitive and sensory capacities to motor, emotional and social function. Its health develops and evolves over the course of a lifetime under the influence of a wide range of factors, some of which – physical and cognitive activity, social relations, sleep, diet (especially a diet rich in fruit and vegetables), psychological well-being, etc. – can be modified. These interdependent determinants are also part of a broader social context. Educational status and socio-economic conditions can influence a person’s ability to adopt behaviours that preserve brain health.