Could a Common Gene Variant Double Dementia Risk for Men?
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Synopsis
A groundbreaking study from Australian researchers has revealed that a common genetic variant significantly increases dementia risk in men. This discovery sheds light on the genetic factors contributing to dementia, paving the way for improved prevention and treatment strategies. Learn more about how this research could impact future health outcomes.
Key Takeaways
- Discovery of H63D variant linked to dementia risk.
- Increased risk significantly affects men compared to women.
- Study involved 19,114 participants from Australia and the US.
- Further research needed to explore gender differences in dementia risk.
- Potential for personalized treatment approaches in dementia care.
New Delhi, May 31 (NationPress) Researchers from Australia have discovered a prevalent genetic variant that increases the risk of dementia in men by twofold. The research team at Curtin University indicated that approximately one in three individuals possesses a single copy of the variant, designated as H63D, while one in 36 have two copies.
The findings, published in the esteemed journal Neurology, revealed that men with a double H63D variant are twice as likely to face dementia during their lives compared to their female counterparts.
This study encompassed 19,114 healthy older adults from Australia and the United States, exploring whether variants of the hemochromatosis (HFE) gene, crucial for iron regulation in the body, correlate with an increased dementia risk.
Professor John Olynyk from Curtin Medical School stated, “Carrying just one copy of this gene variant does not adversely affect health or elevate dementia risk. However, possessing two copies significantly heightens the risk of dementia in men, unlike in women.”
He further noted, “Although we cannot alter the genetic variant itself, understanding the brain pathways it influences could lead to potential treatments that address the damage causing dementia.”
Professor Olynyk emphasized the need for further exploration into why this genetic variant escalates dementia risk for males but not females. “Currently, the HFE gene is routinely tested in many Western nations, including Australia, for hemochromatosis, a condition that causes excessive iron absorption. Our results suggest this testing might be beneficial for men more broadly,” he added.
While the HFE gene plays a crucial role in regulating iron levels, the research team found no direct correlation between blood iron levels and heightened dementia risk in affected men.
“This suggests there may be other underlying mechanisms, perhaps linked to increased brain injury from inflammation and cellular damage,” Olynyk remarked.
The implications of these findings could significantly enhance outcomes for individuals at risk of developing dementia and lead to more personalized prevention and treatment strategies, particularly for men with the double H63D variant.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the significance of this research, which not only enhances our understanding of dementia but also emphasizes the need for tailored health assessments for men. The implications of genetic testing could lead to more personalized care strategies, ultimately improving outcomes for those at risk.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the H63D genetic variant?
The H63D variant is a common genetic mutation in the hemochromatosis (HFE) gene that has been linked to increased dementia risk, particularly in men.
How does the H63D variant affect dementia risk?
Research indicates that men carrying two copies of the H63D variant are twice as likely to develop dementia compared to those without it.
Is the H63D variant more harmful to men than women?
Yes, the study found that the increased risk associated with the H63D variant was significant in men but not in women.
What further research is needed regarding the H63D variant?
Further studies are required to understand the mechanisms behind the increased dementia risk in men and why it does not affect women similarly.
Can the H63D variant be changed or treated?
While the variant itself cannot be changed, understanding its impact on brain health may lead to potential treatment options for dementia.
