Having a Mother with Alzheimer's May Increase Your Dementia Risk
A new study suggests that inheriting Alzheimer's disease (AD) from your mother may be more likely than inheriting it from your father.
prativad 
A new study suggests that inheriting Alzheimer's disease (AD) from your mother may be more likely than inheriting it from your father.
Researchers from Mass General Brigham analyzed data from over 4,400 healthy adults aged 65 to 85. None showed signs of cognitive decline, but brain scans revealed the presence of amyloid plaques - a protein buildup linked to AD.
The study found that participants with mothers who had Alzheimer's displayed significantly higher levels of amyloid plaques compared to those whose fathers had the disease. These plaques are believed to contribute to cognitive decline in AD patients.
"Our findings were published in JAMA Neurology and suggest that maternal history of dementia increased children's risk of having preclinical AD, while paternal history had less impact," explained a researcher involved in the study.
Why the Difference?
The reasons behind this potential gender disparity remain under investigation. Researchers speculate that genes on the X chromosome, which females inherit twice (one from each parent) compared to males (who only inherit one X chromosome), might play a role. Some of these genes may be linked to AD development.
Important Caveats
It's crucial to remember that this is just one study, and further research is needed to confirm these findings. Additionally, having a parent with Alzheimer's doesn't guarantee you'll develop the disease. Many factors contribute to AD risk, including lifestyle choices and overall health.
What This Means for You
If you have a family history of Alzheimer's, talk to your doctor. They can assess your risk factors and recommend strategies to promote brain health, such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep.
Early detection is also key. If you experience any changes in memory, thinking, or behavior, consult your doctor to rule out any underlying causes.
The Takeaway
This study highlights the potential impact of family history on Alzheimer's risk, particularly when the disease is present in the mother. While more research is needed, it emphasizes the importance of proactive measures to maintain brain health and early detection of potential cognitive decline.
