Alzheimers and Heredity
My husband has 2 uncles and 1 aunt diagnosed with Alzheimers. Also, had two other aunts who probably had Alzheimers, but passed away before being diagnosed. Does this increasse his chances of developing Alzheimers since they are blood relatives? Neither of his parents had Alzheimers when they passed away. Mother was 82 when she died of a heart attack, and Father passed away at 80 of complications of CVA, along with COPD.
Tammy
Nothing is definite on this issue, Tammy, but my guess is that it would indicate a bit more risk. However, if his parents didn't have it, that's a very good sign.
Still, much if not most Alzheimer's comes on in families where there hasn't been diagnosed Alzheimer's before. Of course some of that may be because it's only been in recent years when much accurate diagnosing could be done.
He'll need to be alert, but certainly he shouldn't obsess. No one should. Eating well, exercising, good social contacts and an active brain are good for everyone. Also, what's good for the heart is good for the brain. These are good things for all of us to remember.
Take care,
Carol
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Hi Tammy,
I agree with Carol. I also thought I'd share the link to a the HBO documentaries, The Alzheimer's Project. One of the supplementary films gives the latest and greatest information on the role of heredity in Alzheimer's:
http://www.hbo.com/alzheimers/the-supplementary-series.html
Take care and keep us posted!
Dorian
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