Does chronic stress increase the risk of Alzheimer's?

There is evidence that chronic stress can increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Chronic stress leads to increased production of the stress hormone cortisol, which can have negative effects on the brain, especially in areas involved in memory and learning, such as the hippocampus.

Long-term exposure to high levels of cortisol can damage brain cells, particularly in the hippocampus, a critical area for memory. This can contribute to cognitive decline and memory loss, symptoms that also occur in Alzheimer’s.

Chronic stress is also associated with increased inflammatory processes in the body. Inflammation is considered a key factor in the development of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s. An inflammatory response can promote the accumulation of amyloid plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s.

Stress contributes to other health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. These conditions can in turn increase the risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s.

While chronic stress is not the only cause of Alzheimer’s, it likely contributes to the accelerated decline in cognitive function in people who are already at risk.

Source: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11121-022-01385-1

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2024-09-06 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024