Alzheimers and Down Syndrome

In the very recent past I’ve become aware of a link between two well-known diseases that those who aren’t closely associated with individuals with Down syndrome would not be aware.  That connection is between Alzheimer’s and Down syndrome. 

According to WebMD, the genetic makeup and immune system abnormalities of those with Downs can cause them to have higher rates of various illnesses, one of which is Alzheimer’s.  I knew it was likely for people with intellectual and particularly developmental disabilities to have susceptibility to other medical problems, mainly due to the deformities some of them face with their bodies.  However, a condition like Alzheimer’s seems so different than your typical breathing problems or cataracts. (also listed on WebMD as some of those “various illnesses.”)

Those with Down syndrome may be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s as early as their 40s and 50s whereas normal adults don’t typically receive the diagnosis until their 60s.  In fact, estimates note that as many as 25% of Downs clients over age 35 may have signs of Alzheimer’s.  The likelihood of someone with Downs developing Alzheimer’s is three to five times that of the average person.

With such a link between the two medical issues it seems that more education, training and research can be done to determine how to treat each condition both separately and together.  I feel that since the link is so predominant, researchers could be on the brink of learning a lot more about each condition… it’s a hopeful and exciting time to see what sorts of new treatments and potential cures are on the horizon!