Alzheimer’s disease usually manifests symptoms and cognitive changes in people over the age of 65. However, a recent study published in Lancet Regional Health-Americas reveals that signs of Alzheimer’s disease may appear much earlier than previously believed, possibly as early as the mid-20s. Health experts emphasise the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle, adhering to a healthy diet, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol consumption. They also recommend engaging in mentally stimulating activities to preserve cognitive sharpness.
Although Alzheimer’s disease is commonly associated with older adults, research now suggests that it could impact cognitive function long before an official diagnosis is made. This groundbreaking study, featured in Lancet Regional Health – Americas, introduces new insights into early Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers and highlights the importance of brain health from a young age.
The study examined data from Waves IV and V of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health. It involved in-home interviews, cognitive assessments, physical examinations and genetic testing of participants in their 20s and 30s. The findings revealed that specific risk factors and biomarkers associated with Alzheimer’s disease may influence cognitive function from the mid-20s onwards.
Leading experts in the field, including neurologists Clifford Segil (DO) from Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California, and Amit Sachdev (MD, MS) from Michigan State University, emphasise the importance of early prevention strategies based on the study’s results. The study identified key risk factors, such as age, education, blood pressure, genetics and lifestyle habits, that may affect cognitive health in individuals aged 24–44. This emphasises the importance of taking preventive measures at a younger age.
The research also highlighted the significance of biomarkers such as ATN (amyloid, tau and neurodegeneration) and immune markers in relation to Alzheimer’s disease, which can affect cognition in individuals in their 40s and younger. Although there is no definitive test to determine individual risk, experts recommend early evaluation and monitoring of cognitive health to proactively address potential concerns.
Testing for potential reversible causes of memory loss involves conducting blood tests, such as thyroid function tests, and checking vitamin levels, such as vitamin B12. Dr Segil also recommends obtaining a structural brain image to check for silent strokes or atrophy. The main test available for diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease in younger individuals is to assess APOE 4 levels. This is considered a significant genetic risk factor, but its clinical significance in young patients may be difficult to establish.
In order to protect brain health before the age of 30, it is recommended that you adopt healthy habits such as maintaining a nutritious diet, staying physically active, avoiding tobacco and moderating alcohol consumption. Dr Amit Sachdev also emphasises the importance of engaging in activities that stimulate the brain, such as investing in education, socialising, and fostering new friendships and interests during youth, to support cognitive health in later years. Dr Segil emphasises the importance of keeping both the body and mind active to preserve brain function.
If you are concerned about your risk of dementia or have a family history of the disease, you should consult your primary care physician for personalised guidance.
