It seems like there is a new study every few months concerning the causes of Alzheimer’s disease. However, this new study from the University of Kuopio in Finland, reported in the U.K. Express, suggests that lifestyle may be a significant contributing factor in developing the disease. The link between the long term effects of stress and Alzheimer’s could “run the gambit,” causing mild memory impairment on one end of the spectrum, to Alzheimer’s on the other.
The study from the University of Kuopio is only one of several. The article goes on to report:
Scientists at Gothenberg University in Sweden found those who complained of repeated periods of stress, including irritation, anxiety or sleeping problems were significantly more likely to develop dementia in old age than those who led worry-free lives.
As part of the new study, researchers will track the volunteers’ levels of cortisol, released by the body in response to chronic stress. A number of illnesses are known to develop earlier or made worse by chronic stress including heart disease, diabetes, cancer and multiple sclerosis.
Stress can lead to high blood pressure which increases the risk of a heart attack because the heart has to work harder to pump more blood around the body. Cholesterol is also linked to the condition as it is a by-product of cortisol.
Describing the findings, Professor Holmes of the University of Southampton commented that “all of us go through stressful events. We are looking to understand how these may become a risk factor for the development of Alzheimer’s. Bereavement or a traumatic experience, possibly even moving home, is also a potential factor.”