Though Predicting Alzheimer’s Remains A Daunting Task, Researchers Take Another Small Step
Scientists have developed a genetic test that can help identify people who are at unusually high risk of developing symptoms of dementia as they age. The test only underlies how complex truly predicting someone's risk for Alzheimer's is, but it's “an important first attempt," researchers say. In other news, experts talk about how chemicals could impact children's development.
Los Angeles Times:
Researchers Develop Genetic Test That Can Predict Your Risk Of Alzheimer's Disease
New research into the genetic underpinnings of Alzheimer’s disease offers fresh evidence that the devastating brain disorder may gain a foothold years before dementia sets in, and takes a key step toward earlier detection of the disease. In a study that scoured the genes of healthy young people for the presence of variants linked to Alzheimer’s disease, researchers have found that those who carried many of the telltale gene variations had a smaller hippocampus -- a brain structure that is crucial to memory-formation – than did their peers with few of the genetic variations. (Healy, 7/6)
KQED:
Report: Chemicals In Household Products Negatively Impact Children’s Development
Last week a coalition of leading physicians, scientists and health advocates called for tougher regulation of chemicals in common household items — including flame-retardant furniture and food wrapping. We’ll talk with experts about how these chemicals could impact your child’s development, and about how to reduce your family’s exposure. We’ll also discuss the sweeping new federal law on toxic chemicals, which Congress passed last month. (Lagos, 7/7)