It is a common misconception that Alzheimer’s is not a preventable disease, mostly summed up as a normal part of the aging process. However, just like many other diseases such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes, early detection is vital in prevention and delay of the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.
Early detection can have numerous benefits. One can delay the onset of the disease with proper treatment and may be able to live an independent lifestyle much longer than those who do not recognize the early warnings. Being an active participant in the lives of family and friends has been proven to lead to a healthier, happier lifestyle. There are financial benefits as well, as one may be able to live longer in their home, without relying on specialized care from caregivers or assisted living specialists.
The first step in early detection is to know your risk factors. These risk factors serve as indicators and might mean that you have a higher risk of having the disease affect your health later.
Age is considered the greatest risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. Most individuals with the disease are 65 or older, and the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s doubles every 5 years after age 65. After age 85, the risk reaches nearly 50%.
Family history is another risk factor. Research has shown higher risk among those with the first-degree relatives with Alzheimer’s. The risk increases if more than one family member has Alzheimer’s disease.
Unfortunately age and family history are the two risk factors that one cannot control. Other risk factors, such as those listed below, can be identified and managed through healthy lifestyle choices and in some cases, through advice from your doctor.
- Stroke increases an individual’s risk of developing vascular dementia by 6-10 times. So maintaining good cardiovascular health and proper blood flow to the brain is important.
- Head injury especially with loss of consciousness increases the risk of the disease. Also, head injury with or without loss of consciousness increases the risk for seizure, which can begin up to several years after the injury. Seizure is a risk factor for cognitive impairment or dementia if it is not controlled well.
- Heart diseases including heart valve diseases, coronary artery disease and atrial fibrillation reduce blood flow to the brain. Poorly controlled heart diseases lead to large or small strokes anywhere in the brain.
- Diabetes increases the risk for stroke, heart disease and hypertension, all conditions that increase the risk of vascular dementia. Additionally, diabetes also impairs cognitive function in those with AD.
- High cholesterol increases the production of beta amyloid, one of the hallmarks of AD, and doubles the risk of the disease.
- High blood pressure is a major risk for vascular dementia.
Unlike age and genetic disposition, these risk factors can be successfully managed. Working with your doctor on your overall health will help decrease these risk factors allowing you to be less susceptible to the disease.
Alzheimer’s disease has been studied extensively, and there are many tools available for those who want to take charge of their health concerning cognitive function. Knowing your risk factors is your first step, but there are also other tests, some are free and available online, to help gauge your susceptibility to the disease.
There is an online test called the Memory Screen, which is 94 percent accurate in detecting the earliest changes due to Alzheimer’s and related disorders. There are products for healthcare professionals, including a highly accurate memory assessment test called the Mild Cognitive Impairment Screen or MCI for short. It is also recommended by Alzheimer disease prevention websites such as www.preventAD.com to write down and keep track of forgetful behaviors and to visit a dementia specialist sooner than later.
By being proactive in your health, leading a healthy lifestyle and developing awareness for the risk factors, evidence has shown that you can delay and possibly prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.
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One Response to “The Importance of Early Detection of Alzheimer’s Disease”
Betty Hakes November 3, 2009
Thank you for writing and posting this information. Here’s a personal view of how this Alheimers can affect families: http://bettyhakes.wordpress.com/2009/09/15/learn-aobut-living-with-alzheimers-retirement-issues-in-the-wake-of-financial-collapse-of-08/
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