Alzheimer’s Disease: Causes and Risk Factors

There is no one factor that has been proven to cause Alzheimer’s disease. However, scientists have pointed out several risk factors that likely pave the way for the disease and henceforth helps it progress. If present, these risk factors might give a greater chance for a senior to develop the disease.

For instance, a study published in the year 2010 in the medical journal of Neurology reported that Type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance can increase the likelihood of a patient to develop plaques associated with Alzheimer’s disease. The National Institute of Aging (NIA) reports that a family history of Alzheimer’s disease does not necessarily mean a person will definitely acquire the disease, however, it may mean that the person has a higher chance of having it. According to researchers, having one form of the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene on chromosome 19 does increase a person’s risk, according to the National Institute on Aging.

Risk factors may include: aging, family history, genetics, cardiovascular problems, such as heart disease, stroke or high blood pressure, metabolic conditions, such as Type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol, head injury, obesity, poor eating or exercising habits, lack of mental activity, smoking, and drinking too much alcohol.

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