Live Well Be Well with Sarah Ann Macklin | Health, Lifestyle, Nutrition Neuroscience Explains: Can You Prevent Alzheimer’s If It Runs In Your Family? | Dr Tommy Wood | Be Well Moments
Jan 5, 2026
Explore the intriguing relationship between genetics and Alzheimer's risk with expert insights. Discover how the ApoE4 gene amplifies risk, influenced by lifestyle choices like diet and exercise. Learn about the difference between early-onset and common late-onset Alzheimer's, and why modifying behaviors can significantly reduce genetic risk. Almost half of dementia cases might be preventable through lifestyle changes! Tune in for valuable strategies to live healthier and mitigate risks.
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Family Fear About Alzheimer's Risk
- Sarah Ann Macklin shares family worry about Alzheimer's after her grandmother's diagnosis.
- She frames the question of whether genetic risk means dementia is inevitable.
Early-Onset Alzheimer's Is Largely Genetic
- Early-onset familial Alzheimer's is caused by single-gene mutations like presenilin and APP.
- These rare cases (~1%) present younger and follow a more predictable, rapid course.
ApoE4 Acts As A Risk Multiplier
- Late-onset (sporadic) Alzheimer's makes up ~99% of cases and involves different genetic risks.
- ApoE4 is a common polymorphism that multiplies risk but interacts strongly with environment.