All articles tagged with #genetic risk
New research shows that harmful genetic mutations in sperm increase with age and are actively favored during sperm production, raising genetic risks for offspring as men grow older, with some mutations linked to serious diseases and cancer, and evidence of natural selection within the testes influencing mutation rates.
The article discusses the emotional and psychological toll of breast cancer diagnoses within a family, highlighting cases of multiple family members affected, the role of genetic mutations like BRCA, and the different experiences of women diagnosed at various ages, emphasizing the importance of support and awareness.
A study shows that sperm from older men carry more genetic mutations, including potentially harmful ones, which increases the risk of genetic diseases in offspring. The research highlights that mutations accumulate with age and are subject to positive selection, raising concerns about reproductive planning and genetic counseling for older fathers.
Research shows that as men age, harmful genetic mutations in sperm become more common due to natural selection favoring certain DNA changes, increasing the risk of passing on genetic disorders to offspring, with implications for reproductive health and genetic inheritance.
Whole-genome sequencing is set to revolutionize pregnancy by enabling embryo screening to reduce genetic risks, potentially transforming IVF practices, but raising ethical and accessibility concerns.
The study identifies a functional Alzheimer's disease risk variant in the PICALM gene that disrupts PU.1 binding, reduces PICALM expression in microglia, leading to increased lipid droplet accumulation, lysosomal dysfunction, and impaired phagocytosis, which may contribute to disease pathology.
A large-scale study found that individuals with a higher genetic risk for major depression, measured by polygenic risk scores, tend to have smaller brain volumes and surface areas in specific regions such as the hippocampus, thalamus, and orbitofrontal cortex, with potential implications for early intervention and personalized treatment.
A study shows that following the Mediterranean diet can significantly reduce the risk of dementia, especially in individuals with a high genetic risk for Alzheimer's disease due to the APOE4 gene, suggesting that diet can help mitigate genetic predispositions.
The article discusses the implications of discovering your genetic risk for Alzheimer's disease, particularly the APOE4 gene, highlighting that while genetic testing can inform about increased risk, lifestyle choices such as sleep, exercise, diet, and inflammation management play a crucial role in mitigating this risk. It emphasizes that genes are not destiny and encourages proactive health habits regardless of genetic results.
A study suggests that in early stages, individuals with a higher genetic risk for Alzheimer's may become more socially engaged and have better family relationships, possibly as a compensatory response, challenging the idea that social isolation increases Alzheimer's risk.
Lee Rawlinson, a 51-year-old marathon runner from Essex, was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer despite having normal blood tests. Initially attributing his abdominal pain to stress, Rawlinson later discovered the cancer had spread to his liver, making it inoperable. With a family history of the disease, he emphasizes the importance of recognizing symptoms and genetic risks. Rawlinson is now focused on creating lasting memories with his family and raising awareness about pancreatic cancer, which remains one of the deadliest cancers with limited treatment options.
A Lancet commission report suggests that 40% of dementia cases could be delayed or prevented by addressing 14 modifiable risk factors. Dr. Jonathan Rosand and his team have developed a 'brain care score' to help individuals track and improve their brain health through lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, and stress management. Studies show that a higher brain care score is linked to a lower risk of dementia, stroke, and depression, even for those with genetic predispositions. The score emphasizes the importance of healthy habits and managing chronic conditions.
A Swedish study suggests that regular exercise to improve cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) may reduce the risk of dementia, even in individuals genetically predisposed to the condition. The research, involving over 61,200 participants from the UK Biobank, found that high CRF delayed dementia onset by 1.5 years and reduced risk by 35% in those with moderate-to-high genetic risk. While the study highlights a link rather than causation, it suggests enhancing CRF could be a preventive strategy against dementia.
Research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine indicates that higher cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) can significantly reduce the risk of dementia, even in individuals genetically predisposed to the condition. The study, involving over 61,000 participants, found that those with the highest CRF had better cognitive function and a 35% lower risk of dementia. The findings suggest that maintaining physical fitness could delay the onset of dementia by nearly 18 months, highlighting exercise as a crucial component of a healthy lifestyle to mitigate dementia risk.
A smartphone app has shown promise in detecting early signs of frontotemporal dementia, a leading cause of early-onset dementia, in individuals at high genetic risk. The app, which records speech and administers cognitive tests, was found to be as sensitive as traditional clinic evaluations and may even be more effective in detecting the earliest stages of the condition. While not yet available to the public, the app could aid in research and clinical trials for potential therapies, offering a less burdensome and more easily accessible means of monitoring treatment effects.