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A new study suggests that younger generations may have larger brains compared to their predecessors, and this potentially influences their risk of developing dementia later in life.

Led by neurologist Charles DeCarli from the University of California Davis, the research sheds light on the interplay between brain size, external influences and long-term brain health.

The study published on JAMA Network, which imaged the brains of over 3,000 Americans aged 55 to 65, observed a significant increase in overall brain volume among individuals born in the 1970s compared to those born in the 1930s.

Specifically, Generation X members exhibited nearly 8% more white matter volume and almost 15% greater gray matter surface area than those from the Silent Generation.

Of particular interest was the expansion of the hippocampus, a brain region crucial for memory and learning, which increased by 5.7% in volume across successive generations.

Interestingly, the findings persisted even after accounting for factors like height, age and sex.

According to DeCarli, genetics undoubtedly play a role in determining brain size, but external factors such as health, social environment, cultur, and education may also exert influence.

"The decade someone is born appears to impact brain size and potentially long-term brain health," DeCarli explained, per Science Alert.

"Genetics plays a major role in determining brain size, but our findings indicate external influences -- such as health, social, cultural and educational factors -- may also play a role.

According to the researchers, the larger brain structures observed in younger generations could reflect improved brain development and health, potentially serving as a buffer against age-related cognitive decline and diseases like Alzheimer's.

While some neuroscientists have cautioned against equating brain volume with cognitive function, the findings underscored the importance of factors like regular exercise, healthy diet, social engagement and socioeconomic status in maintaining brain health.

Higher incomes, for instance, have been linked to greater protection against white matter breakdown, a phenomenon associated with dementia risk.

Despite ongoing debates within the scientific community regarding the role of brain volume as a proxy for brain reserve, the study offers valuable insights into the potential impact of brain size on dementia risk.