Summary: Connection between Stress and Alzheimer
A recent study by Karolinska Institutet explores potential links between chronic stress, mild cognitive impairment, and Alzheimer’s disease. The research suggests that individuals aged 18 to 65 with a history of chronic stress and depression are at a higher risk of developing mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease compared to those without such a history.
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In Sweden, approximately 160,000 individuals are affected by various forms of dementia, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most prevalent, and this number is on the rise as life expectancy increases. Simultaneously, there have been significant advancements in diagnostic techniques and early intervention therapies, underscoring the importance of pinpointing additional risk factors for the disease.
Previous research has indicated a potential link between chronic stress, depression, and dementia. The latest study further reinforces this connection by revealing that individuals diagnosed with chronic stress or depression are at a heightened risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
The study reveals that the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s disease was over twice as high in individuals with chronic stress and depression compared to those without these conditions. For individuals experiencing both chronic stress and depression, the risk was as much as four times higher. A similar increase in the risk of cognitive impairment was observed.
The study’s senior author, Axel C. Carlsson, affiliated with the Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences, and Society at Karolinska Institutet, acknowledges that the risk remains relatively low, and the exact cause is still unknown. Nevertheless, this discovery holds significance as it aids in enhancing preventive measures and understanding the connections with other dementia risk factors.
The study utilized Region Stockholm’s comprehensive healthcare database, covering all healthcare interactions reimbursed by the region. It specifically focused on individuals aged 18 to 65 during the period of 2012 to 2013. Among the 44,447 individuals diagnosed with chronic stress and depression, researchers tracked their health for eight years to assess subsequent diagnoses of mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s disease.
Comparing these individuals to the broader population of 1,362,548 within the same age group, the study revealed that more individuals with chronic stress or depression also received diagnoses of mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s disease.
Dr. Carlsson emphasizes the importance of identifying all potential risk factors for dementia in this age group, acknowledging that dementia is uncommon in this demographic. While the study suggests a higher incidence among those with chronic stress or depression, further research is needed to establish causality.
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