Variant Detected: 23AndMe Genetic Test for Alzheimer's Disease [Part 2]

In this second installment of a series on 23andMe's genetic testing, I discuss the APOE E4 variant that indicates increased risk for developing late-onset Alzheimer's Disease. I disclose my personal results in order to lead into a broader discussion of genetic risk for certain sorts of cognitive impairment.

There are numerous caveats noted.

For instance, dementia risk is plausibly a combination of genetic and non-genetic factors. Other conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, Down's Syndrome, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity may all -- collectively or individually -- increase a person's risk of developing Alzheimer's Disease.

Part of the dual thrusts of my Alzheimer's-Proof project is to highlight dietary and lifestyle changes that might help a person (not least of all, me!) decrease his or her risk.

Disclaimer: I am not a genetic, healthcare, or medical counselor or specialist of any kind. This presentation is intended for general informational or entertainment purposes only. Nothing herein should be construed as genetic, healthcare, legal, medical, or any other sort of advice. There may be liabilities associated with knowing your own genetic risk factors. Genetics tests do not diagnose any condition. For personalized evaluations or recommendations, consult licensed professionals in your area.

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[qdfgivi]

My results were exactly like yours. My mother had alzheimers. My mother got it in her 70's. We actually thought she had vascular dementia, but she was never tested.After these results, I now believeit was alzheimers. I have changed my diet, and I continue walking each day. I am taking turmeric and CDP choline supplements. I do not have high blood pressure or cholesterol like my mother. My blood sugar is low! I am hoping I will be okay! Thank you for your video!

[davidrutitsky]

I'm 16 years old. I took this test and got a slightly increased risk as it found one variant of the APOE e4 gene. Luckily from what I know no one in my family has had dementia and I have multiple relatives over 70-80 years old and I have no other risk factors as I am pretty healthy so far in my life. For some reason, before the results came in, I was panicking but it's been a few months and I haven't really been worried about it. Thanks for the video, very informative.

[danielg]

My dad recently passed from Atherosceloris Vascular Dementia at age 77. He was not out of shape or obese. He was very active and ice skated 2x a week. This disease ate his mind up very fast. I don't wish it on anyone. in a 6 -month span he went from not being able to eat, drink, walk or take a shower without assistance. That being said my friend Michelle suggests that I get this test to see if I have the dementia/alzyheimers gene. But if I find out I have the variant. There is no cure for this awful disease. Don't really know what to do.

[airsoftlounge]

Sorry about your result. Fingers crossed!

[beckyweaver]

What will you do? Im choosing death with dignity. Peaceful Exit.

[chuckweasel]

Thanks for the video. Very informative. I’m thinking of purchasing this test as well. Here’s my question, or maybe statement. If a person lives to the age of 85, what would it really matter if you get Alzheimer’s? That’s 8 years passed our life expectancy. Even with a double pair of this gene, your odds of simply dying of old age far surpass even the time frame of living with Alzheimer’s. From diagnosis to death you live no longer then 12 years at best. Not sure this test would even be worth the worry.