As a general neurologist with nearly 25 years of experience in Portland, Oregon, I’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact of Alzheimer’s disease on patients and their families. When I stumbled upon a surprising genetic connection to the disease myself in 2012, it was a wake-up call that changed my perspective.
During a genealogical DNA search, I discovered I had two copies of the APOE-4 allele, which significantly increases my risk of developing Alzheimer’s-caused dementia by age 80. The news hit me like a ton of bricks, leaving me feeling stunned and uncertain about my future.
The experience has given me a deeper appreciation for the complexities of Alzheimer’s disease and the importance of genetic testing in understanding individual risks. As a healthcare professional, I now see the value of offering these tests to patients who may be nearing retirement age or have a family history of the disease. By taking proactive steps, individuals can make informed decisions about their health and potentially alter their trajectory.
My story serves as a poignant reminder that Alzheimer’s is not just a patient’s condition – it can also affect loved ones, including those in our own families. As we strive to find new treatments and prevention strategies, I hope my experience will encourage others to explore genetic testing and take control of their health.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2024/12/07/alzheimers-doctoor-daniel-gibbs-dementia