What is Alzheimer’s?

“Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects memory, thinking, and behaviour,” explains Dr. Ahmad Khundakar, senior lecturer in biomedical sciences at Teesside University. “It is the most common cause of dementia, affecting one in 14 people over the age of 65 and one in six people over the age of 80.”

Khundakar’s research primarily involves investigating the molecular and pathological mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative illnesses, such as Alzheimer’s.

“Pathologically, Alzheimer’s disease is characterised by the build-up of abnormal protein deposits in the brain, known as amyloid plaques and tau tangles, that lead to the death of brain cells,” adds Khundakar. “As these proteins spread through different brain regions, they impair function, manifesting in the cognitive and behavioural symptoms characteristic of dementia.”

A common misconception is that Alzheimer’s and dementia are the same thing.

“In reality, dementia is an umbrella term for a range of conditions that affect cognitive function,” clarifies Khundakar. “Alzheimer’s disease is just one of these conditions.”

What are the symptoms?

“Early symptoms often involve mild cognitive impairment, such as difficulty remembering recent conversations or events,” says Khundakar.

However, as the disease progresses, affected individuals begin to struggle with everyday tasks.

“Tasks like managing finances, cooking and self-care become increasingly difficult,” explains Khundakar. “The disease also affects personal relationships, as individuals may experience depression, agitation, or significant personality changes.”

In latter stages, psychological symptoms such as confusion become more pronounced, adds the lecturer.

Who is most at risk?

Age is widely regarded as the most significant risk factor.

“Most cases occur in people aged 65 and older, and the risk nearly doubling every five years after age 65,” says Khundakar.

Your genetics and family history can also play a significant part.

“Genetics can play a role, particularly if there is a family history of Alzheimer’s disease or if it develops early in life,” explains Khundakar. “Cardiovascular health is another important factor, with conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol increasing the risk.”

How is it diagnosed?

Alzheimer’s disease is diagnosed through a combination of clinical assessments, medical history and cognitive tests.

“Neuroimaging techniques like MRI and PET scans can reveal brain changes typical of Alzheimer’s disease, such as shrinkage in specific areas like the hippocampus, which is crucial for memory,” notes the lecturer.

More recently, blood tests and cerebrospinal fluid analysis have shown promise in detecting the disease early by identifying biomarkers associated with Alzheimer’s disease, he adds.

What treatments are available?

Most treatments available focus on managing symptoms.

“Medications such as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and memantine can help alleviate cognitive symptoms,” says Khundakar. “Recent advancements include the development of disease-modifying drugs that target the underlying pathology of Alzheimer’s disease, specifically the amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain.”