Understanding Dementia: Separating Facts from Fear

Differentiating between stress-related memory loss and actual cognitive decline is crucial. Stress, sleep deprivation, or lack of exercise can cause forgetfulness without indicating serious conditions like dementia. Dementia is a broad term for various cognitive decline symptoms, including memory loss and reduced concentration. Types include Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies, and frontotemporal dementia, each with unique attributes. Approximately 30 genes are linked to dementia, with three genes (presenilin 1, presenilin 2, amyloid precursor protein) leading to a certain diagnosis. The remaining 27 genes act as lifestyle or risk factors, emphasizing the significance of lifestyle choices in potentially mitigating dementia risk.