Dementia is a brain condition that affects memory and thinking, and it becomes more common as people get older. While anyone can develop dementia, some people have a higher chance because of their genes.
Our genes are like instruction manuals that tell our bodies how to work. Sometimes, these instructions can have mistakes that make dementia more likely. Here’s what you need to know about genetic risks for dementia:
Most cases of dementia aren’t directly inherited. Only about 1% of all dementia cases are caused by specific gene changes that run in families. These rare cases often start earlier, sometimes when people are in their 40s or 50s.
For most people, dementia risk comes from a mix of genes, lifestyle, and environment. One important gene is called APOE. Everyone has two copies of this gene, and there are three types: e2, e3, and e4. If you have one or two copies of the e4 type, your chance of getting Alzheimer’s disease (the most common form of dementia) is higher. But it’s not certain – many people with e4 never get dementia, and people without it can still develop the condition.
Scientists have found other genes that might increase dementia risk a little bit. A recent study discovered 16 new genes that could be linked to Alzheimer’s. These findings help researchers understand how dementia develops and might lead to new treatments.
Some groups of people have higher genetic risks. For example, people with Down syndrome often develop Alzheimer’s disease earlier. Also, some ethnic groups, like people of Black or South Asian background, seem to have a higher chance of getting dementia, but this might be due to other health issues rather than genes alone.
It’s important to remember that having a higher genetic risk doesn’t mean you’ll definitely get dementia. Many people with “risky” genes never develop the condition. On the flip side, people with no known genetic risk can still get dementia.
What you do in life matters too. Staying physically active, eating a healthy diet, not smoking, and keeping your mind busy can all help lower your risk of dementia, even if you have some genetic risk factors.
If you’re worried about your family history of dementia, talk to your doctor. They can help you understand your risk and suggest ways to keep your brain healthy. Genetic testing is available for some rare forms of dementia, but it’s not usually recommended unless there’s a strong family history of early-onset dementia.
In the end, while genes play a role in dementia risk, they’re just one piece of the puzzle. Taking care of your overall health is the best way to keep your brain sharp as you age.
