High cholesterol linked to increased risk of Alzheimer’s

The research by Kyushu University in Japan found that people with higher levels of fatty acids (lipids), of which cholesterol is one, were more likely to have amyloid plaques in the brain compared to those with normal levels of lipids, or cholesterol. Amyloid plaques are a hallmark of Alzheimer's. There was no link between cholesterol levels and levels of tau - another hallmark of Alzheimer's.

The researchers examined autopsies of 147 people who had been observed for 10-15 years before death and who had had their lipid levels measured at the start of the observation period.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'We're often given stark warnings about the dangers of high cholesterol. This research adds further weight to the argument that it's not only bad for the heart but it's also bad for the head. However, the study does not show a direct link between cholesterol and Alzheimer's. Nor did the researchers explore what other factors might have caused the changes in the brain.'

'One in three people over 65 will die with dementia but there are things you can do to reduce your risk. People should eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, not smoke and get their blood pressure and cholesterol checked.'

Dr Anne Corbett
Research Manager
Alzheimer's Society 

Research Reference: 'Association of Alzheimer disease pathology with abnormal lipid metabolim' by Dr Matsuzaki et al in Neurology

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Notes to editors:

• 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 ten 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