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I’m always impressed when I see people under 40, 50 or 60 take an interest in preventing Alzheimer’s and dementia. I have quite a few prevention patients. Usually they have watched the heartbreak of their parents’ demise and have been through the stress of caring for them, making impossibly challenging decisions. They are motivated to avoid that fate for their own children.
The risk is 50% that a parent will pass along the genetic mutations associated with Alzheimer’s of PSEN1 (presenilin 1), PSEN2 (presenilin 2) and APP (amyloid precursor protein). According to the Alzheimer’s Society, Familial Alzheimer’s Disease is one of the causes of young-onset dementia.
Young-onset dementia is not common. Based on a Norwegian study, it’s less than 0.5% of the population. But I still like to say that birth is the best time to start preventing cognitive decline.
This topic is getting a little more awareness these days because a study released in JAMA Neurology last month revealed 15 modifiable risk factors for young-onset dementia.
I’d like to emphasize that these are listed as modifiable risk factors.
In regards to the study findings, Dr. David Perlmutter was quoted in USA Today, “All of these factors increase dementia risk as they all lead to the same fundamental mechanisms that ultimately threaten the brain…These mechanisms include inflammation (and) increased activity of damaging chemicals called free radicals.”
Lifestyle changes, especially those geared at reducing inflammation, can affect all of these risk factors.
Whether someone is already experiencing symptoms of early-onset, or wants to prevent or delay any symptoms, it is important to remember that there is hope!
Warmly,
Dr. Heather Sandison
P.S. – You Have the Power to Build Your Better Brain. Learn more from me and David Perlmutter, MD in the groundbreaking documentary series, Better Brain Blueprint. NYT bestselling author Austin Perlmutter, MD, along with other leading brain health experts, reveal the secrets to achieving optimal brain function, protecting your brain, and keeping it sharp at any age. Join the FREE online World Premiere starting February 7!
