Week 5 – As we explore the differences between genetics

By
Responsive Centered Red Button

Need Help with this Question or something similar to this? We got you! Just fill out the order form (follow the link below), and your paper will be assigned to an expert to help you ASAP.

Order Form

As we explore the differences between genetics and genomics, consider the role genetics plays in health promotion and our practices as well as the role disease prevention plays this week. Please answer the following discussion prompts:

  • Choose one of the following topics: breast cancer, colon cancer, arthritis, type 1 diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, major depressive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, postpartum depression, or sickle cell anemia. Describe your chosen topic.
  • How are genetics involved in your chosen topic? Is there a clear genetic link with your topic? If so, what genes are involved in the likelihood for this condition? If not, how might genetics impact your chosen topic.
  • Relate how at least two environmental factors can impact your chosen topic based upon evidence-based research.
  • Explain a minimum of two protective factors associated with your chosen topic.
  • Explain a minimum of two risk factors associated with your chosen topic.
  • Support your response with in-text citations and APA-formatted scholarly references.

Order your custom, AI free paper Today

Order Now

Week 5 Discussion: Genetics, Environment, and Risk Factors in Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects memory, cognition, and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia, especially in older adults. As the population ages, Alzheimer’s continues to pose a significant public health challenge. Understanding the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to the disease is crucial for effective health promotion and disease prevention.

Genetic Involvement in Alzheimer’s Disease

There is a clear genetic link associated with Alzheimer’s disease. The most well-known genetic risk factor is the APOE-e4 allele (apolipoprotein E epsilon 4). Individuals who inherit one copy of the APOE-e4 gene from a parent have an increased risk of developing late-onset Alzheimer’s, and those who inherit two copies are at an even higher risk (Loy et al., 2014). Other genes, such as APP, PSEN1, and PSEN2, are associated with early-onset familial Alzheimer’s, although these cases are much rarer.

Environmental Factors That Impact Alzheimer’s Disease

  1. Exposure to Air Pollution:
    Research suggests that long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and other pollutants can increase inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, contributing to neurodegenerative changes (Calderón-Garcidueñas et al., 2016).
  2. Low Educational Attainment:
    Individuals with fewer years of formal education have a higher risk of Alzheimer’s. It is believed that education builds cognitive reserve, which can delay the onset of symptoms (Livingston et al., 2020).

Protective Factors for Alzheimer’s Disease

  1. Regular Physical Activity:
    Exercise has been shown to improve blood flow to the brain, reduce inflammation, and enhance neuroplasticity—all of which may delay cognitive decline.
  2. Cognitive Engagement:
    Activities such as reading, puzzles, and learning new skills can help maintain cognitive function and may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s.

Risk Factors for Alzheimer’s Disease

  1. Family History:
    Having a first-degree relative with Alzheimer’s significantly increases an individual’s risk, especially when linked to the APOE-e4 gene.
  2. Cardiovascular Disease:
    Hypertension, diabetes, and obesity increase the risk of Alzheimer’s by damaging blood vessels and affecting brain health.

References

Calderón-Garcidueñas, L., Kavanaugh, M., Block, M. L., D’Angiulli, A., Delgado-Chávez, R., Torres-Jardón, R., … & Bickford, P. C. (2016). Neuroinflammation, hyperphosphorylated tau, diffuse amyloid plaques, and down-regulation of the cellular prion protein in air pollution exposed children and young adults. Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, 59(1), 189–209. https://doi.org/10.3233/JAD-160197

Livingston, G., Huntley, J., Sommerlad, A., Ames, D., Ballard, C., Banerjee, S., … & Mukadam, N. (2020). Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2020 report of the Lancet Commission. The Lancet, 396(10248), 413–446. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(20)30367-6

Loy, C. T., & Schofield, P. R. (2014). Genetics of dementia. The Lancet, 383(9919), 828–840. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(13)60630-3

How to create Testimonial Carousel using Bootstrap5

Clients' Reviews about Our Services