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Many conditions can cause dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is the leading
cause of dementia. Dementia related to depression, drug interaction, thyroid
and other problems may be reversible if detected early. It is important
to identify the actual type of dementia in order to receive proper care.
Scientists
are still not certain what causes Alzheimer’s disease. Age and family
history with Alzheimer’s disease are identifiable risk factors for
the disease. Scientists are exploring the role of genetics in the development
of Alzheimer’s, focusing on chromosome 19. Many researchers and physicians
are beginning to believe that Alzheimer’s is a complex disease, probably
caused by a variety of influences.
Does Alzheimer’s disease run in families?
The evidence is not clear. Cases where several members of a single family
have had autopsy- confirmed diagnosis of the disease is rare. Much more
common is the situation where a single-family member is diagnosed as having
probable Alzheimer’s (meaning physicians are about 80-90% certain
it is Alzheimer’s).
A person’s risk of developing the disease seems to be slightly higher
if a first-degree relative (brother, sister, parent) has the disease.
This situation is called familial which means there could be a genetic
factor involved. It could also mean family members were exposed to something
in the environment that caused the disease.
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