The gene should be tested to predict Alzheimer's disease at a young age

A new test can identify people at risk of Alzheimer's for decades before signs of disease appear.

A new test can identify people at risk of Alzheimer's for decades before signs of disease appear.

There is currently no treatment for dementia. Most medications prescribed during the developmental phase only slow down the symptoms. However, according to experts, early detection is very important. If the disease is found early, the person can change his or her lifestyle, such as regular exercise and healthier eating, so that the disease progresses as slowly as possible.

Picture 1 of The gene should be tested to predict Alzheimer's disease at a young age

From genetic testing points, scientists can conclude who is at risk for Alzheimer's right from the time when the disease has not yet manifested - (Photo: Alamy).

American scientists are developing ways to predict people with dementia in the elderly since they were 35 years old. Massachusetts General Hospital has conducted many tests including testing genetic variants that are thought to increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

When looking at people with mild cognitive impairment, they found that those with higher scores in genetic testing were more likely to become insane. The team also found these people to have hippocampus (a very important part for memory and spatial awareness).

Scientists found that people aged 35 or younger who had higher test scores also had smaller hippocampus. This suggests that these changes may lead to memory loss occurring earlier. Elderly people with memory problems who have high scores in gene testing, the situation worsens faster.

Picture 2 of The gene should be tested to predict Alzheimer's disease at a young age

Although only genetically evaluated, the trials also opened a bright path to know who is at risk for Alzheimer's early to have timely and effective treatment - (Photo: Alamy) .

Dr. Elizabeth Mormino, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, said: "Clinical trials are underway to test whether therapies can slow memory loss in people at risk. "The goal of this type of research is to help doctors better identify those at high risk of dementia for future preventive treatment."

To get the above scores, the group conducted gene research on 166 people with dementia and 1,026 people without symptoms.

"This study provides evidence that the creation of a" risk score "based on the combination of different genes can be used , said Dr. Doug Brown, research director at the Alzheimer's Association. used to predict whether someone is at risk of developing memory problems ".

"A major challenge in developing these types of hazards is to ensure that they can accurately predict a person's risk. It is extremely important that trials provide people with reliable information. reliable and helpful to be able to act, but not to cause unnecessary worry , " the doctor continued.

Picture 3 of The gene should be tested to predict Alzheimer's disease at a young age

People with a high genetic test score, smaller hippocampus are more likely to get sick earlier - (Photo: Alamy).

Dr. Doug Brown also evaluated: " Dementia is caused by a combination of genetics, lifestyle and environment, so the above-mentioned risk point is only for a genetic look, can only be provided. give us a picture ".

In the face of the growing condition of this disease, Dr advised people to exercise regularly, avoid smoking and eat a healthy, balanced diet because only this will reduce the risk of disease. .

The study was published in the journal Neurology.

Update 15 December 2018
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