Understanding Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer's disease represents 60-80% of dementia cases, characterized by progressive neurodegeneration. Key mechanisms include:
- Amyloid-beta plaque accumulation in neural tissue
- Neurofibrillary tangles of tau proteins
- Chronic neuroinflammation and oxidative stress
- Reduced acetylcholine production
- Cerebral blood flow reduction
Modifiable Risk Factors
- Hypertension
- Insulin resistance
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Chronic stress
Non-Modifiable Risks
- APOE ε4 allele
- Advanced age
- Family history
- Female gender
