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

EMBARGO: 1.30AM TUESDAY 13 JULY 2010 (2.30PM MONDAY HST)

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

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

- Ends -

Research reference: 'The obesity related gene, FTO, increases the risk for incident Alzheimer disease in a prospective population based study' by Caroline Graff et al

Notes to editors:

• For spokespeople and case studies contact the Alzheimer's Society press office on 0207 423 3595.
• ICAD is the world's leading forum on dementia research. Run by Alzheimer's Association, it will this year be taking place in Hawaii from Sunday 11 July to Thursday 15 July.
• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia.
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In just 15 years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051.
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them.
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
• Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
  
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk