A team of Swedish researchers from the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm has identified a connection between long-term stress and an increased chance of developing Alzheimer’s disease. The findings appear in the scientific journal Alzheimer’s Research and Therapy (ART) [Citation: ART].
Alzheimer’s disease stands as the most common form of dementia, a condition where brain function declines and everyday tasks become harder to manage. The new study sheds light on how chronic stress and related mood disorders may influence this trajectory [Citation: ART].
The researchers used the Stockholm administrative health database to examine health records. They focused on adults aged 18 to 65 during the years 2012 and 2013, constructing a large population sample for analysis [Citation: ART].
In total, more than 44,400 individuals were identified as having chronic stress and/or depression. The team then tracked these participants for eight years to observe how many would receive an Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis later on [Citation: ART].
From the analysis, the team found that people living with chronic stress or depression faced about twice the risk of developing dementia. Those who experienced both conditions had a markedly higher risk, roughly four times greater than people without these disorders [Citation: ART].
The researchers emphasize that these results highlight the importance of early recognition and ongoing management of stress and mood disorders as part of a broader approach to brain health. They are also exploring surveys and cognitive tests to help identify individuals at risk before noticeable symptoms emerge [Citation: ART].
Previously, scientists reported the development of a straightforward test capable of predicting Alzheimer’s disease up to two decades before its onset, underscoring the potential for long-range planning in clinical care and lifestyle interventions [Citation: ART].