A hidden genetic mutation might be a key to predicting whether a man could develop dementia. This insight comes from research led by Monash and Curtin Universities in Australia. They dove into the medical records of thousands of Australians and Americans, finding that men with a specific variant in the haemochromatosis (HFE) gene, which controls iron levels, face a higher dementia risk.
The study highlights that men over 70 with two copies of the H63D variant are two to four times more likely to develop dementia. Surprisingly, having just one copy of this variant doesn’t seem to increase risk. About one in 36 men have two copies, while one in three have just one.
Professor John Olynyk from Curtin Medical School shared with Fox News Digital that only men with two copies are at risk. Women, for reasons still unknown, aren’t affected by this genetic abnormality. The study, featured in the journal Neurology, leveraged data from the ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly (ASPREE) trial, which tracked health data of 19,114 older adults.
Although individuals can’t change their genetic makeup, researchers believe the “brain pathways” affected by this variant could be addressed with treatment. The HFE gene is commonly tested in Western countries for haemochromatosis, but these findings suggest broader testing for men may be beneficial.
Interestingly, the study didn’t find a direct connection between iron levels and dementia risk, suggesting other factors might contribute. This could involve increased risk of brain injury due to inflammation or cell damage, noted Professor Olynyk. Further exploration is needed to understand why this risk isn’t present in women.
Understanding the increased risk for men with the double H63D variant could lead to more tailored prevention and treatment strategies, pointed out Professor Paul Lacaze from Monash University. However, the study’s limitation lies in its predominantly Australian participant base.
Professor Olynyk emphasized the need for repeated studies in other countries to see if similar effects occur. He noted that while genetic risk factors are fixed, their impact might be reduced through lifestyle changes like regular exercise, healthy eating, and mental activity.
Overall, the researchers advocate for a healthy lifestyle to lower dementia risk. This includes staying physically active, eating well, limiting alcohol, and addressing medical issues that could increase dementia likelihood. The study had contributions from institutions like the University of Melbourne and Fiona Stanley Hospital.
Fox News Digital’s Melissa Rudy, a senior health editor, contributed to reporting on this study, providing insights into its findings and implications. For more health news, you can check out Fox News’ health section online.
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