Genetic differences can raise or decrease a person’s likelihood of developing the condition. Further, scientists know of about 70 genetic regions involved with Alzheimer’s. Similarly, Alzheimer’s doesn’t have a single genetic cause, but a person can be at more risk if viewed with lifestyle and environmental factors. If a person inherits 3 of these variants (APP, PSENI1, or PSEN2), they will develop Alzheimer’s before age 65. A person with Down’s Syndrome can develop the disease earlier. They carry the APP gene that produces the protein that builds up brain plaques. Changes in genes, lifestyle, and environmental factors are factors in developing Alzheimer’s.
Dementia is linked with genetic ancestry.
The National Institute On Aging (NIH) has an interesting article on genes, genetic testing, and
genetic research. They concluded that people who have a parent or sibling with Alzheimer’s disease are more likely to get the condition themselves. Further, their research shows that a higher degree of risk is also associated with genetic ancestry. This means an area of the world in which they are from. Genetic tests are not used in clinical settings now to diagnose dementia. However, there are currently products on the market for consumer genetic testing. These tests are convenient but should be explained by a professional.
Benefits of GeneticsTesting?
Genetic testing is done on a blood or cheek swab sample. Often samples of hair, saliva, or skin are used. However, the National Library Of Medicine discusses genetic testing and goes into detail about the benefits and drawbacks of this type of medical testing. These are the benefits of genetic testing:
- Correct recommendations for treatment
- Information for making decisions about a person’s health
- Being able to skip unnecessary screenings
- Identify disorders early in life to start treatment
Drawbacks of Genetic Testing
There are drawbacks to genetic testing:
- A person could feel angry after a diagnosis
- Limited information could be given
- Expensive
Remember that it is very important to have a genetic counselor explain the results correctly.
Future Research of Genetic Testing
The National Institute On Aging is currently working on many major genetic research programs. They want to find out what starts the disease. Also, why do some people with several difficulties develop the disease while others do not? Further, they want to identify high-risk people and use gene discoveries to develop treatments.
Importance of Genetic Testing to Identify Dementia
Moreover, there is an Alzheimer’s Risk Test powered by Genoscore. This test assesses the genetic risk of cognitive decline due to Alzheimer’s disease from a saliva sample. Doctors can use this with new patients who show signs of cognitive decline. The test can also identify patients most suitable to enter into drug trials. A patient can provide a saliva sample in their homes. The test provides an APOE status, a risk factor for Alzheimer’s. However, your doctor can order a Genoscore test for you.
How to reduce the risk of dementia?
The risk of dementia can be reduced or the onset avoided by following some simple steps, which include these ideas:
- Treat diabetes
- Exercise each day
- Eat healthily
- Treat high blood pressure
- Be with friends and family
- Do not smoke or be around people who do
- Limit alcohol amounts
- Sleep well
- Treat hearing loss
- Exercise your brain
- Learn new things!
Moreover, according to the statistical analysis of The World Alzheimer’s for 2021, 75% of people with dementia are undiagnosed yet.