Since the fall of Saddam Hussein, activities perceived to be contrary to the moral code of Islam have come under repeated attack, with alcohol shops targeted in Baghdad and other cities.

BBC: Baghdad alcohol shops caught in deadly attacks

Because of the data already being collected about these people, the study allowed Saczynski's group to control for heart disease, heart attack, stroke, smoking, alcohol use and other factors that could have influenced dementia.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

The disease can emerge after trauma, such as a heart attack, or after years of smoking or alcohol abuse.

FORBES: Scar Wars