Who gets Alzheimer’s disease?
Researchers do not know the exact cause of Alzheimer's disease, but it likely is due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. While research suggests that age and heredity are factors, some studies have shown that the risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease might be increased by exposure to heavy metals, by depression, by hyperthyroidism, and even by head injury.
The risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease include:
Age
The risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease increases with age. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 10 percent of all people over the age of 65 have Alzheimer’s disease, and as many as 50 percent of people over 85 have it.
Gender
Alzheimer’s disease affects women more frequently than men.
Family history
A clear, inherited pattern of Alzheimer’s disease exists for less than 1 percent of all cases.
Down syndrome
People with Down syndrome often develop Alzheimer’s disease in their 40s and 50s, likely due to an extra copy of a specific gene.
Head injury
Some studies have shown an association between Alzheimer’s disease and a significant head injury.
Environmental toxins
Some researchers suspect that increased exposure to certain substances, such as aluminum, might make a person more susceptible to Alzheimer’s disease.
Low education level
Although the reason is not clearly understood, some studies have shown that low education levels can be related to an increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease.
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 9/27/2006.
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