Recent research published by the Alzheimer’s Association investigates the connection between biological age and dementia risk. Biological age is determined through a blood test. The study analyzed data from over 223,000 participants, examining blood metabolites linked to fat processing, inflammation, and energy use.
Researchers calculated a measure named MileAge delta, reflecting the difference between metabolite-predicted age and actual age. A higher MileAge delta suggests the blood profile is older than expected, whereas a lower delta suggests a younger profile.
Study Results
The study found that participants with a higher MileAge delta showed an increased risk for all-cause dementia, particularly vascular dementia. Individuals with both a higher MileAge delta and the APOE gene, linked to Alzheimer’s, faced a tenfold increased risk.
The biological aging marker, MileAge, was especially predictive of vascular dementia, the second most common form of dementia.
Dr. Julian Mutz from King’s College London highlighted the significance of understanding risk factors beyond genetics. While genetic risk is fixed, metabolomic aging might be modified through lifestyle changes or clinical interventions.
Healthspan vs. Lifespan
Fox News medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel noted the importance of focusing not only on lifespan but also healthspan. Chronic illness, combined with the APOE gene, significantly increases dementia risk. Vascular dementia is closely linked with conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and obesity.
Study Limitations
The study was observational and couldn’t definitively prove causation, showing only a potential link between older biological age and dementia risk. Participants were mostly healthier and of European ancestry, not fully representing the general population. Additionally, the research relied on a single blood measurement, missing potential changes in biological aging.
Further validation is needed for the MileAge biomarker before it can be used in clinical practice.
Angelica Stabile is a lifestyle reporter for Fox News Digital.
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