The genetic risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease is more strongly influenced by the mother’s side than the father’s side, a recent study has discovered. Alzheimer’s disease steals memories, independence and the capacity to connect with loved ones. In 2020, over 55 million people worldwide were living with dementia.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60-70% of all dementias. It’s expected the number of people affected by dementia will nearly double every 20 years . Finding ways to better diagnose, treat and even prevent dementia is more important than ever.
This latest study could provide a useful target for researchers hoping to develop new therapies. The study, published in JAMA Neurology , showed that people whose mother had a history of memory loss had a greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease at any age when compared to people with only a paternal history of memory loss (or no family history of memory loss whatsoever). However, if a person’s father had early-onset memory loss (occurring before the age of 65), they also had a greater risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
The study analysed data from 4,413 people aged 65 to 85 who had no issues with cognitive function or memory problems. The study’s large sample size is a key strength, making for a more accurate interpretation of the findings compared to previous research. But it’s important to note it’s not a complete representation of the population, as most par.