New issue: Preventing Dementia

A recent study estimated the risk of men and women developing dementia after the age of 55 at 42 per cent. So what’s driving this rather frightening number? Well, for one thing, we’re living longer, and it would seem our minds aren’t quite keeping up with our bodies. Why? Nobody is really sure. But there’s another way of looking at those figures. And that’s to remember that anything you can do now to keep those percentages down, is likely to pay off later on. Like so much in medicine, prevention – helping people stay well enough to avoid hospitalisation – really is the key. Mercifully, there are dozens of small changes you can make now that can reduce your risk of developing dementia in later life. We take a deep dive into what they are, and why they work, in this issue. Personally, I’m going to try to get better sleep. But one way or another – whether it’s cutting down on wine, getting more exercise or changing my diet (all helpful in their own right) – I’m going to commit to getting better rest. I’ve read it does wonders for the brain… time for a nap.

Holly Spanner

Published: June 18, 2026 at 7:00 am

Issue 434 of BBC Science Focus is on sale from 18 June 2026

The birds that took over from the dinosaurs

Meet the fearsome birds that used to rule the world (spoiler: they're awesome).

America is using AI to approve (and deny) medical care

Why AI is being used to decide who receives medical treatment and what it means for doctors and patients.

The future of food

Big Food is responding to the rise of weight-loss drugs in surprising ways.

Can you really trust your memory?

How the courts could restore their faith in the reliability of eyewitness testimony.

Plus

Should Pluto be reinstated as a planet? NASA wants Pluto back as a planet and some scientists are on board. But reinstating it would mean having to add dozens of new ones, including Earth’s Moon
The Ferrari Luce: "When the invite for the launch of the new electric Ferrari landed on my desk a couple of weeks ago, it felt significant. Momentous, even. But boy, did I underestimate just how important the Luce would be." - Daniel Bennett on the new Ferrari Luce. Read more in issue 434.
Q&A: Your questions answered. This month, our experts answer: What’s the best food to eat before bed? Is pooping outdoors bad for the environment? Is tongue rolling actually genetic? How can we clean up space junk? What does my music taste say about my intelligence? Can your thyroid make you a narcissist? And more…

Issue 434 on sale Thursday 18 June 2026

Don’t forget that BBC Science Focus is also available on all major digital platforms. We have versions for Android, Kindle Fire and Kindle e-reader, as well as an iOS app for the iPad and iPhone.

Staff Writer, BBC Science Focus

Holly is the Staff Writer for BBC Science Focus and looks after the popular Q&A section. She holds an MSc (distinction) in Geoscience (Space and Climate Physics) from UCL, and specialises in astronomy and earth sciences. Before joining Our Media, she worked as a geoenvironmental consultant and engineer, informing on ground risk and remediation in the north of England, while hunting for exoplanets in her spare time. Alongside this, she was regional editor of a popular theatre website for nine years, and has a solid background in curating and developing content for the digital space. Holly is also an artist and illustrator, and regular contributor to the craft website, Gathered. She has previously worked with the RSPB, English Heritage, Disney, Pilot and Brother, as well as on BBC Good Food magazine, Home Style magazine, and Papercraft inspirations magazine. She enjoys photography and has a sustained interest in antiques.

Issue 434 of BBC Science Focus is on sale from 18 June 2026