Is Alzheimer's Disease Hereditary? Rudy Tanzi Answers

A significant portion of Alzheimer's disease is caused by the inheritance of defective genes. ~ Rudy TanziThe role of heredity (the passing of traits to offspring from parents and/or ancestors) in Alzheimer's disease is not well understood.In fact, the role of heredity in AD is mostly misunderstood.By Bob DeMarcoAlzheimer's Reading RoomRudy Tanzi clears up much of this misunderstanding in the interview below.Rudy Tanzi is the Joseph P. and Rose F. Kennedy Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School; and, Director, of the Genetics and Aging Research Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital.Rudy is also a good friend of the Alzheimer's Reading Room.What is the Difference Between Alzheimer ’s and DementiaAfter watching, listening and reading, I hope you will considersharing this important information with other members of the Alzheimer's community.Part 1: Alzheimer's and GeneticsIs Alzheimer's hereditary?Yes. All cases have some genetic component. The earlier the age of onset, the stronger the role of genetics. The later the age of onset, the more interplay of genes with environment and lifestyle.What is Alzheimer's Disease?If I have no family history, am I still vulnerable to Alzheimer's?Yes - especially if you live longer than your ancestors.You shouldn't assume you're immune just because you have no family history of Alzheimer's.5 Best Memory Tests for Alzheimer's and DementiaCan we recommend genetic testing for anyone? Only if it's reliable, andonly for families with a hist...
Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The - Category: Neurology Tags: alzheimer's brain Alzheimer's genes alzheimer's test dementia health Is Alzheimer's hereditary is alzheimer's inherited memory test news Source Type: blogs