My fraternal grandmother has alzheimerzs, my mother has alzheimers. What are the chances of my getting this disease, and what should I be looking for. I feel I may already have mild cognitive impairment.
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Q: what are the genetic factors of alzheimers
Answers (2)
9/22/09 6:43am
Hi Concerned daughter
The important role our genes play in our likelihood of getting Alzheimer's, (and many other diseases), is an area that we are finding out about more and more. At the present time we are still not sure what causes Alzheimer's but do know that some people are more at risk.
Your risk does increase with the more family members that suffered from the disease. However it does not mean you will get it. There is some more information on genetic factors and the causes of Alzheimer's that should help you.
As we find out more about human genetics it increases the likelihood of a cure for Alzheimer's.
Christine
9/22/09 11:17am
Hi, Concerned Daughter,
I agree with Christine. I also wanted to let you know about the HBO documentary, The Alzheimer's Project. One of the supplemental films (which you can stream on your computer) is focused on the research concerning genetic causes. That link is at:
http://www.hbo.com/alzheimers/the-supplementary-series.html
The other films are also very informative.
If you are concerned about your mental state, please talk with your primary care physician. Also, please know that in today's hectic and crazy world, other issues (like stress, multi-tasking and depression) can wreak havoc with memory. Also, hormonal changes due to menopause can take their toll as well.
Like you, I also have many relatives on my mother's side of the family who have had some form of dementia and I sometimes feel like my memory is slipping (although lately, I've been really sharp). What I've learned in doing research for this site is that practicing self-care (good diet, exercise, stress reduction, maintaining healthy relationships, and trying new things mentally) is important not only for quality of life, but also as a way to be proactive in preventing dementia.
Take care and keep us posted!
Dorian
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