Genetics Or Lifestyle? What Leads To Dementia Risk In People With Down Syndrome

A recent study by researchers in the United States has explored why some people with Down syndrome develop dementia while others do not. Scientists have found that both genetic and lifestyle factors may play a role in this difference. Studies show that people with Down syndrome have a high risk—over 90 per cent—of developing dementia caused by Alzheimer's disease as they age. This is because they are born with an extra copy of chromosome 21, which affects brain and body development. However, until now, researchers did not fully understand why some with Down syndrome remain cognitively stable despite having the same genetic risk.

Key Findings from the Study

Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh and the University of California studied a woman with Down syndrome over a period of 10 years. After she passed away, her brain was donated for research.

Even though she showed no signs of cognitive decline during her lifetime, MRI scans of her brain revealed changes typically associated with Alzheimer’s disease. This unexpected result led scientists to believe that certain genetic or lifestyle factors might have helped protect her brain function.

The Role of Education and GeneticsAccording to lead researcher Jr-Jiun Liou, a postdoctoral scholar at the University of Pittsburgh, the woman’s stable cognitive health could have been linked to her high level of education or specific genetic traits. These factors may have helped her brain function well despite the presence of Alzheimer's-related changes.

What This Means for Future Research

The study, published in the journal Alzheimer's and Dementia, provides researchers with a rare opportunity to understand how genetic and lifestyle factors influence brain health. If scientists can identify protective factors, it may lead to new strategies for reducing dementia risk in people with Down syndrome and the general population.

Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Dementia Risk

While genetics play a role in dementia risk, certain lifestyle choices can help improve brain health and lower the chances of developing cognitive decline.

1. Stay Physically Active

Regular exercise helps maintain good blood flow to the brain and reduces the risk of cognitive decline. Activities like walking, swimming, or yoga can be beneficial.

2. Eat a Brain-Healthy Diet

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats (such as those found in fish, nuts, and olive oil) may protect against dementia. The Mediterranean diet, in particular, is linked to better brain health.

3. Keep Your Mind Engaged

Challenging the brain with puzzles, reading, learning new skills, or playing musical instruments can help keep memory and cognitive functions sharp.

4. Get Enough Sleep

Poor sleep can negatively affect brain function. Aim for at least 7–8 hours of good-quality sleep each night to support cognitive health.

5. Manage Stress and Mental Health

Chronic stress and mental health conditions like depression can increase the risk of dementia. Practising relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing can help reduce stress.

6. Maintain Social Connections

Regular social interactions with family and friends can help keep the brain active and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

By understanding what helps maintain cognitive stability, scientists may develop new ways to protect brain health in people with Down syndrome and others at risk of dementia.

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