Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurologic disorder that causes memory loss and other cognitive decline due to brain cell degeneration. It’s the most common cause of dementia — a clinical syndrome characterized by a collection of symptoms that affect cognitive abilities, memory, thinking behavior. Dementia is not a specific disease itself.
It’s estimated that more than 55 million people worldwide live with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. And that number continues to grow.
Dr. Ronald Petersen, director of the Mayo Clinic Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, says Alzheimer’s disease, like many other conditions, can be passed down through families.
“Like many other diseases, Alzheimer’s disease can run in families. If you have first-degree relatives with Alzheimer’s disease, your risk may be up three or fourfold over the general population,” Dr. Petersen says.
While the risk increases, it doesn’t mean you’ll develop the disease.
Dr. Petersen says to stay involved in intellectual activities, such as reading and playing chess. Be socially active.
