Risk Factors for Alzheimer's Disease

While scientists know Alzheimer's disease involves progressive brain cell failure, why this happens is still not known.   In the large majority of the cases, the cause of Alzheimer's disease remains un-known.  It is likely that Alz- heimer's develops as a result of multiple factors rather than a single cause.  Increasing age is the greatest known risk factor for Alzheimer's.  Most individuals with Alzheimer's are 65 and older.   The likelihood of deve-loping Alzheimer's approximately doubles every five years after age 65. After age 85, the risk reaches nearly 50 percent.

A small percentage of Alzheimer's cases is caused by a rare, genetic variations found in a few hundred families worldwide. In this inherited form of Alzheimer's, the disease strikes younger individuals. When Alzheimer's is first recognized in a person under age 65, this is referred to as "Younger-Onset Alzheimer's. "

One of the emerging areas in dementia research is prevention.   Some exciting work in this area suggests that strategies for general healthy aging may also help re-duce the risk of developing Alz-heimer's.   This includes eating a "brain healthy" diet such as low in fat, and many fruits and vegetables. Staying socially active is another important "brain healthy" factor.

To learn more please contact the Alzheimer's Association CT Chapter at 800.356.5502.   Or visit us online at: www.alz.org/ct

Article submitted by: Ana Nelson, Regional Director, Alzheimer's Association CT Chapter