Frontotemporal disorders (FTDs) are common causes of dementia among older people. People with FTDs experience unique challenges regarding linguistics and cognitive functioning. Studies have shown that various genetic mutations can end up causing FTDs, while details about potential non-genetic and preventable risk factors for these diseases have recently come to light.
The Focus of the Study
Research performed in 2022 in the field of traumatic brain injuries has revealed that brain damage can greatly increase a person’s chances of being diagnosed with FTD. The study was conducted by researchers at the University of Eastern Finland, which found that a history of previous traumatic brain injuries can increase a person’s chances of experiencing FTD, particularly in individuals who do not carry a genetic mutation. The University of Oulu and the University of Brescia also joined as partners in the study.
People who have suffered head injuries develop FTD earlier than other individuals. Researchers compared Finnish patients with FTD to individuals impacted with Alzheimer’s disease. A healthy control group was also utilized in these studies.
The Study’s Results
The study found that traumatic brain injuries can act as a triggering factor for the neurodegenerative elements of frontotemporal dementia. Researchers, however, have commented that the underlying mechanisms of the disease require additional examination.
Similar Dangers are Associated With Alzheimer’s Disease
Additional studies performed in December 2022 found an increased risk as the result of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as well as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in veterans who inherited the APOE4 genetic variant. APOE4 is the biggest risk factor gene regarding whether a person will one day be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Inheriting APOE4, however, does not necessarily mean that a person will develop Alzheimer’s.
This study was performed by Dr. Mark Logue, who works at the Veteran Administration Boston Healthcare System’s National Center for PTSD. The researchers determined a significant percentage of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia (ADRD) in Veterans with PTSD as well as those people who have been diagnosed with traumatic brain injuries. The doctor and his team then considered interactions between the e4 variant, PTSD, and traumatic brain injuries.
The researchers performed the study by reviewing data compiled by the Veteran Administration’s Million Veteran Program, which is one of the biggest databases in the world for details of this type of health and genetic nature. Given that more than 40% of veterans in the United States are over the age of 75, the number of people with dementia is also rising substantially. Other large medical studies have revealed TBIs and PTSD significantly elevate a veteran’s chances of being diagnosed with dementia.
Speak With an Experienced Accident Attorney
If you or your loved one experienced a traumatic brain injury resulting from an accident, you should not hesitate to speak with a knowledgeable lawyer. Contact House Law LLC today to schedule a free case evaluation.
Tags: brain injury, personal injury, traumatic brain injury
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