Study suggests link between early Alzheimer's disease and low body mass index (BMI)

Scientists at the Department of Neurology and School of Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Centre, used advanced brain imaging techniques and analyses of cerebrospinal fluid to look for biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease in 506 people.

The study found that people with a low BMI were more likely to have biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease, whether they had mild cognitive impairment or not.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'As yet it is unclear whether a low BMI is actually part of Alzheimer's, or a side effect caused by the disease. Although this study shows a link between it and changes in the brain common to Alzheimer's, there was no association between BMI and symptoms of the disease such as memory loss. More work is needed before we can say if these findings could be used to develop better ways of diagnosing the early stages of the condition.

What we do know is that living well will reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's Society recommends people eat healthily and exercise regularly.'

Dr Anne Corbett
Research Manager
Alzheimer's Society

Research Reference:

Alzheimer disease biomarkers are associated with body mass index by J.M Burns et al in NEUROLOGY® the medical journal of the American Academy of 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

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