Alzheimer’s is a degenerative disease that affects brain cells and causes memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes. It is the most common form of dementia in people over the age of 65, affecting over 5 million Americans.

Alzheimer’s disease gradually worsens over time and can become severe enough to interfere with daily tasks.

What Causes Alzheimer’s Disease?

The exact cause of Alzheimer’s disease is not fully understood. However, researchers have identified several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing the disease.

Some of the most common risk factors include age, genetics, and lifestyle factors like diet and exercise.

Factors that Increase Alzheimer’s Risk Sixfold

Research has shown that there are several factors that can increase a person’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease sixfold. These include:.

1. Age

The risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease increases with age. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the risk of developing the disease doubles every five years after the age of 65.

By the age of 85, the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease is almost 50 percent.

2. Genetics

Several genes have been identified that can increase a person’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. The most well-known of these genes is the ApoE gene.

People who inherit one copy of the ApoE4 gene from a parent have an increased risk of developing the disease. Those who inherit two copies of the gene have an even greater risk.

3. Head Trauma

Research has shown that head trauma can increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. People who suffer a head injury that results in loss of consciousness are at a greater risk than those who do not.

The risk appears to be highest for people who have a history of repeated head injuries, such as boxers or football players.

4. Cardiovascular Disease

Research has also shown that cardiovascular disease can increase a person’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

This may be because the same risk factors that lead to cardiovascular disease, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol, also increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

5. Diabetes

Diabetes has also been shown to increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. People with diabetes have an increased risk of developing all types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.

This may be because high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels in the brain, leading to the development of Alzheimer’s disease.

6. Smoking

Smoking has also been linked to an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers believe that smoking may damage blood vessels in the brain, leading to the development of the disease.

Conclusion

Alzheimer’s disease is a devastating condition that affects millions of people around the world. While there is no cure for the disease, early detection and treatment can help to slow the progression of symptoms.

By understanding the risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing the disease, individuals can take steps to reduce their risk. Factors that can increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease sixfold include age, genetics, head trauma, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and smoking.