Alzheimer’s Risk DNA Test

The APOE gene has three common variants (alleles): e2, e3, and e4. Since each person inherits two copies of the APOE gene, their specific genotype can indicate their risk of developing late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD):

• e2/e2 – Reduced risk
• e2/e3 – Reduced risk
• e2/e4 – 3X increased risk
• e3/e3 – Neutral (does not affect risk)
• e3/e4 – 3X increased risk
• e4/e4 – 10X to 15X increased risk

Understanding your genetic risk for AD can help with early detection, encourage proactive monitoring, and allow for timely medical intervention to slow disease progression.

• Memory loss that disrupts daily life
• Difficulty planning or solving problems
• Struggling with familiar tasks
• Confusion about time or place
• Trouble interpreting visual images or spatial relationships
• New challenges with speech or writing
• Misplacing items and difficulty retracing steps
• Poor judgment or decision-making
• Withdrawal from work or social activities
• Mood swings or personality changes

Alzheimer’s disease affects millions worldwide, making it the most common cause of dementia. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 55 million people currently live with dementia, with Alzheimer’s accounting for 60–70% of cases. In the United States alone, approximately 6.7 million people aged 65 and older have Alzheimer’s, and this number is projected to nearly double by 2050. Women are disproportionately affected, making up almost two-thirds of all cases. The disease is also a leading cause of death, ranking seventh worldwide, with an estimated one in three seniors dying with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. With no known cure, early detection and lifestyle interventions remain crucial in managing the disease and slowing its progression.

Currently, there is no known way to completely prevent Alzheimer’s disease, but research suggests that certain lifestyle changes and strategies may reduce the risk or delay the onset of symptoms. While genetics play a significant role in the development of Alzheimer’s, particularly with the APOE e4 gene variant, environmental and lifestyle factors are also influential.

Some preventive measures include:

1. Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, like the Mediterranean diet, may help protect brain health.

2. Physical Activity: Regular exercise, especially aerobic activity, has been shown to improve brain function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

3. Mental Stimulation: Engaging in activities that challenge the brain, such as puzzles, reading, or learning new skills, may help build cognitive reserve.

4. Social Engagement: Staying socially active and maintaining strong relationships can help reduce feelings of isolation and stimulate the brain.

5. Chronic Disease Management: Controlling risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol, as well as avoiding smoking, can decrease the risk of developing Alzheimer’s.

6. Sleep Hygiene: Proper sleep, as poor sleep has been linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s.

Although these strategies are not guaranteed to prevent Alzheimer’s, they may help improve overall brain health and reduce the likelihood of developing the disease later in life.