Health Corner

Is Alzheimer’s disease caused by aging?

No. Alzheimer’s disease is not simply caused by aging. While age is the greatest risk factor, Alzheimer’s is actually a specific brain disorder—distinct from normal aging. The true cause lies in brain degeneration, triggered by the formation of abnormal amyloid plaques and tangled nerve fibers (tau protein tangles) in the brain.

Amyloid plaques accumulate between brain cells, disrupting neural communication and causing inflammation, which damages surrounding neurons. Meanwhile, tau tangles destroy the microtubule structure inside neurons, blocking nutrient transport, leading to cellular collapse and death.

Are the “Three Highs” (high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and high cholesterol) related to Alzheimer’s disease?

Yes — the “Three Highs” do increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Studies show that people with type 2 diabetes are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s. Hypertension in particular can damage cerebral blood vessels, reduce brain blood flow, and cause microinfarctions and white matter lesions, which over time impair memory and thinking functions.

Moreover, high blood sugar and insulin resistance can trigger chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and vascular injury in the brain. Thus, metabolic conditions like the “Three Highs” are indeed key risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease.

Other lifestyle factors—such as obesity, unhealthy diets (high in oil, salt, and sugar), mental inactivity, and lack of exercise—can further increase the likelihood of developing the condition.

Want to prevent Alzheimer’s early?

In addition to keeping your brain active, there are screening options available. Here are two recommended examinations:

1. Early Alzheimer’s Screening – HK$880
   A simple blood test to detect biomarkers related to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and assess your risk level.
   Learn more here: https://mall.humanhealth.com.hk/products/early_alzheimer_screening

2. “Three Highs” Comprehensive Check – Promotional price HK$330 with code HC330
   A complete blood test covering lipid levels, blood sugar, and urinary health to help you detect metabolic conditions early.
   Learn more here: https://mall.humanhealth.com.hk/products/easycheck

References: 

• Alzheimer Society of Canada: 13 Risk Factors of Dementia

• National Institutes of Health (NIH): Alzheimer’s Disease – A Brief Overview