This episode of Defy Dementia explores the role of genetics in dementia risk. First, caregiver advocate Marva Smart shares how she is taking steps to manage her genetic risk and protect her brain health in light of prior dementia diagnoses in her family. Then, Dr. Tricia Woo, a clinician expert on genetic dementia risk from Hamilton Health Sciences and McMaster University, discusses the research on the link between specific genes and dementia. She also shares science-backed ways to reduce your risk, no matter your DNA. Tune in to this empowering new episode for practical strategies to help you protect your brain, no matter your genes.

Note: Shortly after we recorded this episode, a scientific article was published in the journal Nature Medicine (Fortea et al., 2024) strengthening the potential link between individuals' genetics and Alzheimer's disease. However, these new results do not change the recommendations for healthy lifestyle changes presented in this episode on how to reduce your dementia risk.

Additional resources

<ul><li> <a href="https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/your-risk-of-dementia-do-lifestyle-and-genetics-matter-2019091317671" target="_blank">Your risk of dementia: Do lifestyle and genetics matter?</a> – from Harvard Health </li><li><a href="https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/dementia-information/genes-and-dementia/" target="_blank">Genes and dementia</a> – from Alzheimer’s UK</li><li><a href="https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/genetics-and-family-history/alzheimers-disease-genetics-fact-sheet" target="_blank">Alzheimer's Disease Genetics Fact Sheet</a> – from the National Institute on Aging </li></ul>