Is Alzheimer's disease hereditary?
- Prof. Yehudit Aharon Peretz
- Ari Manor
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About genetic predisposition to Alzheimer's disease, and what can be done about it
Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia - a clinical syndrome that describes a deterioration in cognitive functions and behavior to the point where the patient is no longer able to function normally in daily life, ceases to be independent, and usually requires the help of others.
The fear of Alzheimer's disease affects many. When we see a relative struggling with memory loss and cognitive decline, the question arises: "Is it hereditary? Will it happen to me too?" In this article, we will clarify the connection between genetics and Alzheimer's disease.
Is Alzheimer's disease hereditary?
The answer is complex. Alzheimer's disease is usually divided according to the age at which cognitive decline becomes apparent:
1. Alzheimer's disease that manifests at a young age
regarding Alzheimer's disease that manifests itself at a young age, that is, in the age group of 18-65 years, In most cases, researchers have not been able to prove a hereditary predisposition. In a small percentage of cases at these ages, the disease is familial. (Familial Alzheimer's Disease), and is caused by specific mutations (genetic changes) in one or more of the APP, PSEN1, or PSEN2 genes. When one parent carries such a mutation, their children have a 50% risk of inheriting this mutation, and if they inherit the mutation, they will be at very high risk of developing cognitive decline and dementia. In addition, people living with Down syndrome are at very high risk of developing Alzheimer's disease at a young age because the genetic change that causes Down syndrome also causes Alzheimer's disease.
Rarely, people who carry mutations that cause Alzheimer's disease will not develop symptoms of the disease. These people have been found to carry mutations that protect them from developing Alzheimer's disease symptoms. These people are a focus of research, and researchers are trying to learn from these protective mutations whether and how a person suffering from Alzheimer's disease brain changes can be protected from developing cognitive decline and dementia.
2. Alzheimer's disease that appears in old age
regarding Disease Alzheimer's disease that appears in old age, That is, in people 65 years of age and older, the existence of a single "Alzheimer's gene" has not been proven, and it is assumed that in old age the disease is caused by a combination of lifestyle and genetic and environmental factors. Version ApoE4 of the garden apoe Increases the risk of Alzheimer's disease in old age, but not everyone carries it.ApoE4 will develop Alzheimer's disease, and not everyone who does not carry this gene will develop cognitive decline and dementia. In addition, dozens of other genes are known to be associated with the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, but their effect is smaller.
Genetic testing: is it worth it and when?
Clinical genetics clinics are located in the community and hospitals. There is no indication To perform genetic testing Routinely, because the treatments that exist today and are offered to people with cognitive decline and dementia are not usually determined based on genetic status.
However, it is strongly recommended to consider genetic counseling and diagnosis in cases where dementia
Exploding At a young ageIt is important to identify the cause of the disease and know the genetic status when planning a family (to prevent the mutation from being passed on to future generations) and also in cases where treatment based on genetic findings is considered during a consultation with a specialist. It is important to note that in any case, genetic testing is recommended. Only on the recommendation of a specialist doctor In diseases that cause cognitive decline and dementia.
Diagnosing Alzheimer's disease and other dementias
If you or your loved ones experience cognitive decline, behavioral changes, or functional difficulties at any age, it is important to consult your family doctor, and if necessary, seek further evaluation from a specialist in one of the following specialties: neurology, psychiatry, and geriatrics. Clinics specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of people suffering from cognitive changes and dementia exist in the community and in hospitals.
The initial diagnosis includes a cognitive assessment, blood tests, and usually imaging tests. The scope of the investigation will be determined by the specialist doctor. Early diagnosis is always important and critical at any age, and especially in young people, in cases where the course of deterioration is rapid, or when the initial symptoms are behavioral. Early diagnosis allows for optimal treatment for a person experiencing cognitive and behavioral deterioration, planning for the future, and improving quality of life.
Is it possible to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia even in people with a genetic predisposition?
Absolutely yes! The following factors have been found to significantly affect the risk of developing dementia and help delay its onset:
- regular physical activity: At least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity and strength training.
- Cognitive and social activity: Learning, reading, brain games and maintaining social connections.
- Mediterranean diet: Rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish and olive oil; low in saturated fat and processed meat.
- Maintaining cardiovascular health: Balance blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol.
- Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol.
- Quality and satisfying sleep.
- Treatment of vision and hearing impairments.
Asking for help
If you are concerned or need advice, EMDA Association Operates a free national advice and support line: 8889*Professionals will be happy to listen, advise, and refer you to the appropriate authorities. Remember, there is something to do, and someone to talk to.
Prof. Yehudit Aharon-Peretz She is the chair of the Scientific Advisory Committee of EMDA Association and a senior physician at the Institute for Stroke and Cognition, Rambam Medical Center. Previously, director of the Institute for Cognitive Neurology.
Ari Manor: CEO of the consulting company ZOOZ , and Director of Strategy and Marketing at the EMDA Association . Expert in strategy, marketing and innovation. Has a master's degree in human genetics, as part of the Interdisciplinary Excellence Track at Tel Aviv University.