Alzheimer’s Research on Causes and Risk Factors

Alzheimer's Causes on Risk Factors

January 27, 2014

What causes Alzheimer’s?

We still don’t fully understand what causes Alzheimer’s disease, but scientists are zeroing in on the answers. This is one of the most exciting – and most important – areas of research, because understanding the causes lead to more targeted treatments and ways to prevent the disease.

Scientists generally agree that a single clear “cause” of Alzheimer’s is unlikely. The disease is more likely the result of a combination of inter-related factors, including genetics, environmental influences, and even lifestyle. Each of these “risk factors” is currently the subject of a great deal of research including a growing body of research to identify various “lifestyle factors,” such as dietary habits, high blood pressure and high cholesterol, which may influence one’s risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

What is clear is that Alzheimer’s develops as a result of a complex cascade of biological processes in the brain that take place over many.


What is known about risk factors for Alzheimer’s?

The answers to this central question are evolving as research provides more information. Right now, age is the primary risk factor for Alzheimer’s, along with family history. More women than men have Alzheimer’s, but this is likely because women live longer than men; the incidence by age is similar among men and women. Education level and previous history of head trauma are also generally agreed upon as probable risk factors for Alzheimer’s. The use of certain groups of drugs including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins may also impact Alzheimer’s risk, according to a number of studies. Compelling new evidence is now indicating that other “lifestyle factors,” such as one’s dietary habits, high blood pressure and high cholesterol, may impact one’s risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease.

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