So now we know that there is no known cause for Alzheimer’s Disease. Just like other conditions, however, researchers have learned about risk factors, or things that may increase one’s risk of developing the disease. Let us take a look at some of these.
Age
This is the greatest known risk factor. As one ages, the risk for Alzheimer’s Disease increases as well. As I mentioned in my previous post, most people who have the condition are 65 years and above. In fact, the chances of a person getting Alzheimer’s doubles every 5 years after the age of 65.
Genetics and family history
The chances of getting Alzheimer’s are higher if there is someone in the family who has (or had) the condition. The genes also matter a lot – there are some genes that have been found to cause Alzheimer’s in certain families. However, more research is needed in this area.
You’ll notice, of course, that those two risk factors are things that we cannot control. There are also some risk factors that we can have control over.
Head injury
If the head suffers from serious trauma, one can have a higher risk of getting Alzheimer’s disease. As such, you might want to always wear a protective helmet when engaging in activities that pose potential harm to your head.
Lifestyle with regard to aging
The human body needs to be taken care of. Abuse it and it will break down on you. As you get older, the body needs more care. If you do not engage in a healthy lifestyle, the chances of aging affecting you negatively are higher.
The bottom line? There is no way for sure that you can avoid the disease. However, living a healthy lifestyle can go a long way.
Originally posted on November 16, 2008 @ 12:19 pm