Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disease that slowly damages the brain. Over time, it can lead to memory loss, cognitive decline and changes in behavior that affect daily life. In the brain, plaques and tangles made of abnormal proteins build up and interrupt communication between nerve cells. As more brain cells are damaged, parts of the brain shrink. This brain change may begin years or even decades before symptoms appear.
There is no single cause of Alzheimer’s disease. Instead, the disease develops because of multiple risk factors working together. Some cannot be changed. Others are modifiable risk factors, meaning you may be able to lower your risk with healthy habits and medical care.
Age is the biggest known factor for Alzheimer’s. Nearly 75% of people diagnosed are age 75 or older. But younger adults can also develop early-onset Alzheimer’s in their 40s or 50s. Currently, 6.5 million people in the United States are living with Alzheimer’s. That number is expected to continue rising.
Women are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s than men. About two-thirds of people diagnosed are women, partly because women often live longer.
Research shows some communities are at higher risk:
Having a parent or sibling with Alzheimer’s raises your risk, especially if symptoms began at a younger age.
Certain forms of the APOE gene can increase your chance of developing the disease. Genes do not guarantee Alzheimer’s but can influence risk.
Diseases that affect the heart and blood vessels can increase your risk of dementia. These include:
Many of these are modifiable, meaning treatment can help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s or slow cognitive decline.
People with Down syndrome have a much higher chance of developing Alzheimer’s. About:
This happens because they have an extra copy of chromosome 21, where a protein linked to brain plaques is made.
A history of moderate or severe traumatic brain injury may increase Alzheimer’s risk later in life.
Researchers continue to explore additional influences, including:
These factors may also increase the risk of dementia over time.
Studies show Alzheimer's is not caused by:
There is also no proven link between Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, although both are disorders of the nervous system.
While not all causes can be prevented, many lifestyle habits can help keep your brain healthy:
Talk to your primary care doctor if you have questions about Alzheimer’s prevention or mild cognitive impairment (MCI) symptoms like forgetfulness or problem-solving changes.
Banner Health is here to support you and your family every step of the way. If you are concerned about your risk or changes in memory, make an appointment with one of our caring experts.
At Banner Health, you and your loved ones are never alone in managing Alzheimer’s disease. Our team offers coordinated care across neurology, psychiatry, primary care and supportive services.
We focus on early detection, clear guidance and personalized treatment plans that help you maintain the best quality of life possible.
Our approach includes:
We’re here to provide answers, emotional support and leading-edge care at every step of your journey.
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