Alzheimer's Disease Prevention
Learn
- Overview
- What It Is
- Causes
- Risk Factors
- Diagnosis
- Symptoms
- Prognosis
- Living With
- Complications
- User Questions
Take Action
- Screening
- Medications
- Prevention
- Treatment
- Alternative Treatment
- Care Guide
- Questions for Your Doctor
- When to Contact a Doctor
- Find a Doctor
- Resource Guide
How to Prevent Alzheimer's Disease
Because the causes are unknown, there are currently no guidelines for reducing your risk of Alzheimer's Disease. Scientists are studying medications and lifestyle factors (eg, diet, mental activity, exercise) that may help ward off the condition. Control of high blood pressure and high cholesterol as well as decrease of weight if an individual is overweight may be of benefit for decreasing the risk of Alzheimer's disease. For example, studies have found that drinking alcohol in moderation (one drink per day for women, two drinks per day for men) may reduce the risk for Alzheimer's disease. In addition, some researchers have argued that long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can lower the risk.
Earlier studies indicated that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in women decreased the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. However, recent studies showed that HRT may actually increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease in postmenopausal women. As our understanding of Alzheimer's disease grows, your doctor may have more information regarding steps for reducing your risk as you age.
