Hollywood star Chris Hemsworth recently disclosed that he had a rare genetic combination of two copies of the APOE4 gene, which is associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, it is the highest risk-factor gene for Alzheimer’s, even though it does not guarantee the onset of the condition.

Of the different types of dementia, Alzheimer’s is the most prevalent: more than 55 million people suffer from it, and approximately 10 million new cases are reported annually. In Malaysia, 8.5% of those over age 60 are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.

The genes you inherit may increase your risk of developing the disease, especially if there is a family history. There are two types of Alzheimer’s: late- and early-onset.

The causes of this progressive neurological disorder are still poorly understood, although the following factors could play a part:

1. Age

After age 65, the risk of getting Alzheimer’s doubles every five years. Nevertheless, anyone is at risk of developing it – in fact, one in 20 people below age 65 lives with the condition, including those as young as age 40.

2. Down Syndrome

People with Down Syndrome are more susceptible to Alzheimer’s owing to the presence of genetic abnormalities.

3. Head injuries

It’s possible for those who have suffered serious head injuries to be more likely to develop Alzheimer’s, though more study is required in this area.

4. Cardiovascular disease

According to research, certain illnesses and lifestyle choices that are linked to cardiovascular disease can increase the risk of Alzheimer’s. These include smoking, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.

5. Other risk factors

Hearing loss, untreated depression, social isolation, and a sedentary lifestyle may be significant, although these do not necessarily contribute directly to dementia.

Signs and symptoms

• Memory loss that interferes with daily life. For instance, asking the same questions repeatedly, or getting lost in a familiar setting.
• Losing things easily and not being able to find them.
• Difficulty managing finances and paying bills.
• Challenges in completing routine duties at work or home, or just carrying out leisurely activity.
• Decreased or bad judgement.
• Mood, attitude, or behavioural changes.

Note, however, that exhibiting these symptoms in and of itself does not necessarily indicate you have Alzheimer’s.

Is there a cure?

Sadly, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, even though new medical developments may slow its progress. Nonetheless, there is growing evidence that those who adopt healthy lifestyle practices such as regular exercise and blood-pressure control can lower their risk.

Healthy lifestyle choices that help stave off heart disease, diabetes and cancer may also reduce the risk of subjective cognitive decline. Here are some practices you should cultivate:

1. Sleep

Adults should get between seven and nine hours of quality sleep nightly.

2. Regular exercise

Exercising several times a week for 30 to 60 minutes can help maintain one’s capacity for thought, logic and learning.

3. Social engagement

Thanks to intellectual stimulation, participation in social activities may reduce the risk of dementia. Increased social engagement may also boost one’s immune system and slow cognitive ageing by enhancing positive emotional traits such as self esteem.

Numerous studies suggest that preserving healthy social networks and remaining cognitively engaged may reduce one’s chances of mental deterioration.

4. Diet and nutrition

A healthy and balanced diet consisting of vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, low-fat dairy products, and whole grains is essential. A daily serving of leafy green vegetables such as kale and spinach has been associated with slower age-related cognitive decline.

Incorporating “brain food” into your meal plans – such as fatty fish, blueberries, turmeric, and almonds – can enhance your mood, hone your memory, and support optimal brain function.

Other lifestyle choices include giving up smoking, cutting back on alcohol, losing weight, and going for regular checkups.

This article was written by DOC2US, a mobile application that allows you to talk to a doctor or any healthcare professionals via text chat at any time and from anywhere.