Genetic test for Alzheimer’s disease: should I do it?

Alzheimer’s disease affects more than 10% of Americans age 65 and older, according to the Alzheimer Association. As the population ages, more and more people are considering genetic testing for Alzheimer’s disease.

Although this type of test can provide insight into a person’s risk factors, it is important to understand both the positives and negatives that come with such a test. How do you know if genetic testing for Alzheimer’s disease is right for you? Our specialist Gary Petit, MD., chair of psychiatry at Hackensack University Medical Centerweighs.

Who might consider genetic testing?

While a person can develop Alzheimer’s disease without any family history of the disease, people who have a parent or sibling with Alzheimer’s disease are more likely to develop the disease. Having more than one first-degree relative with Alzheimer’s disease further increases this risk. When Alzheimer’s disease runs in families, genetics may play a role.

If a patient has a high incidence of Alzheimer’s disease in their family, says Dr. Small, they may be referred to a genetic counselor. “A person may have a cousin or a father who had the disease, or a grandfather who contracted it in the 80s or 90s,” he says. “This occasional case is probably not a case of genetic mutations, but rather a genetic risk.”

Here’s what that means:

• Genetic risk: A person may have a form of gene that is relatively common and may contribute to the presence of the disease, but is not enough on its own to cause the disease. Unlike the mutation case, those who carry the genetic risk factor will not necessarily develop the disease.
• Genetic mutation: Gene mutations are very rare and occur when there is an error in the DNA. These mutations occur in situations where approximately 50 percent of the affected family can be found. The presence of the gene is sufficient to diagnose the presence or risk of the disease.

Risks of genetic testing for Alzheimer’s disease

Before undergoing any type of genetic test, it is important to understand the possible risks involved.

Dr. Small does not always recommend screening for genetic risk. “I feel like it doesn’t provide much more conclusive information to people,” he says. “There is also the risk that it could make people anxious.”

Some people experience psychological distress associated with learning about their own personal health risks as well as potential risks to family members. For this reason, counseling services should always be considered with any type of genetic test. A genetic counselor can help you understand the potential emotional impact of the test results as well as the possible implications of the test.

If you think you are at risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, discuss your concerns with your doctor, who can advise you on what to do next.

Reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s

In addition to genetics, environmental and lifestyle factors contribute to the overall risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Fortunately, many of these factors are within your control.

To reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s, Dr. Small recommends:

• Regular exercise: Exercise has a positive impact on brain health, so aim for about two hours of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking or jogging, swimming, or jumping rope, each week.
• To manage stress: Because there is a correlation between mental illness and cognitive decline, seek professional help for depression or anxiety.
• Get a good night’s sleep: Try to get enough sleep so you feel rested the next day, and seek treatment for sleep-related disorders, such as insomnia or sleep apnea, that may be preventing you from getting quality sleep.
• Consuming a Mediterranean-style diet: Although no specific dietary recommendations have been established to prevent Alzheimer’s disease, Mediterranean-style diets rich in olive oils, fish and nuts may have a beneficial effect on cognitive health.
• Stay socially active: Involvement in a club or volunteering has been shown to prevent mental decline to some extent.

Next steps and resources:

The material provided by HealthU is intended to be used for general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your doctor for individual care.