During the Lunch & Learn session in October our colleagues Janna and Joan discussed the role of heredity in dementia. Through interactive statements and clear explanations, they addressed common questions and misconceptions. The session took place in the Colloquium in the Alzheimer Center Amsterdam.
Heredity usually plays a role in dementia through genetic risk factors rather than a single genetic cause. A genetic predisposition can increase the risk of developing dementia, but it does not provide certainty. Lifestyle and environmental factors remain important and can influence risk, even in people with increased genetic susceptibility. Inherited forms of dementia that occur at a young age are rare.
The session also highlighted the DemenTREE research project, in which Alzheimer Center Amsterdam studies genetic and biological factors in young-onset dementia to improve diagnosis, risk prediction, and future treatment options.
The key takeaway: genes do not determine everything. Lifestyle continues to play a crucial role. We are looking forward to all the insights from this research.