New research links obesity gene to Alzheimer's disease and dementia

Researchers at the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden presented their findings at the International Conference on Alzheimer's Disease (ICAD) today (Tuesday 13 July 2010).

The study involved 1,003 people over 75 without dementia. All participants were tested for the obesity gene, FTO-AA and the most common Alzheimer's gene, APOE4. Participants were then followed up after nine years to identify new cases of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Researchers found that people with the obesity gene had a 58 per cent increased risk of Alzheimer's disease and a 48 per cent increased chance of developing dementia. The study also showed the risk of Alzheimer's disease doubled in people who had the FTO-AA and APOE4 genes.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'It has been argued for some time that too many chips and chocolate bars could not only lead to a big belly but could also increase your risk of dementia. However this latest study suggests the link between obesity and dementia could in some cases be partly genetic. More research is needed to determine to what extent this is the case.

'We need a greater understanding of the link between genetic and lifestyle factors but until then, there are things we can all do to lower the odds of dementia. Eating healthily and exercising regularly will protect your head as well as your heart.'

Professor Clive Ballard
Director of Research
Alzheimer's Society