29th April 2024

Risk factors

The most significant risk factor for AD is age, commonly affecting people over the age of 65. The prevalence increases with age, with risk doubling every five years past the age of 65. A small percentage of cases occur prior to the age of 65; this is referred to as early-onset Alzheimer’s Disease.

Other risk factors include being female, leading an unhealthy lifestyle (similar to cardiovascular risk factors) and having Down Syndrome. Family history is also significant, with a family history of AD, Parkinson’s disease and Down’s Syndrome resulting in an increased risk of suffering with AD.