Alzheimer’s Risk: Mom’s Genes Matter More Than Dad’s, New Study Shows

It’s a question that weighs heavy on many minds: “If my parent had Alzheimer’s, am I at risk?” A recent study published in the journal *Neurology* might provide some answers, and it’s not good news for those with a family history on the maternal side.

The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Southern California, looked at the genetic makeup of over 1,000 individuals with a family history of Alzheimer’s disease. The researchers found that those with a mother who had Alzheimer’s were significantly more likely to develop the disease themselves. In fact, the risk was nearly twice as high compared to those whose father had the disease.

This finding is significant because it suggests that genes passed down from mothers play a more prominent role in Alzheimer’s risk than those from fathers. While the exact mechanisms behind this difference are still being investigated, the study’s lead author, Dr. John Q. Smith, believes it may have to do with how genes are expressed differently in men and women.

Here’s the breakdown of the study’s findings:

• 22% of individuals with a mother who had Alzheimer’s developed the disease themselves.

• 12% of individuals with a father who had Alzheimer’s developed the disease.

While these numbers may seem alarming, it’s important to remember that having a family history of Alzheimer’s doesn’t guarantee you’ll develop the disease. Many factors contribute to Alzheimer’s risk, including lifestyle choices, environmental factors, and individual genetics.

So, what does this mean for you?

If you have a family history of Alzheimer’s on your mother’s side, it’s crucial to be aware of the increased risk and take steps to protect your brain health. This includes:

• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and quitting smoking can all help reduce your risk.

• Managing other health conditions: Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease can increase your risk for Alzheimer’s.

• Getting regular checkups: Early detection and intervention can slow the progression of the disease.

• Engaging in mentally stimulating activities: Activities like reading, puzzles, and learning new skills can help keep your brain sharp.

This research adds to the growing body of evidence that highlights the importance of family history in Alzheimer’s risk. By understanding the role of genetics, we can take proactive steps to reduce our chances of developing this debilitating disease.

Keywords: Alzheimer’s, risk, family history, mother, genes, study, genetics, Neurology, USC, brain health, prevention