Date of Award

7-21-2021

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

MS in Physician Assistant Studies (PA)

Department

Physician Assistant Studies

First Advisor

Vanessa Bester

Abstract

Alzheimer’s disease remains a significant health burden that affects millions in the United States. This research pursued to shed light on the modifiable risk factors and help individuals at high risk for Alzheimer’s disease minimize the chances of cognitive decline. A search of literature was conducted on databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Medline. Randomized control trials, longitudinal studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses were identified and included in the paper. The modifiable risk factors that play a role in the onset and progression of Alzheimer’s disease include stress, inadequate physical exercise, lack of sleep hygiene, and lack of social engagement. However, in the studies that focused on modifying these factors, results showed an improved cognitive performance. Other modifiable factors such as alcohol and dietary intake, including omega-3 fatty acids and carotenoid-rich foods, were found to slow cognitive decline. Additionally, the MIND, DASH, and the Mediterranean diet are recommended for high-risk patients. The general implication of these findings is that modifying these risk factors for high-risk patients can lead to better cognitive performance and slow AD progress. Future studies can focus on conducting longitudinal factors such as alcohol intake due to the inconsistent findings documented in this research. The burden of Alzheimer’s disease can be reduced nationwide by effectively addressing these modifiable risk factors.

Identifier

SC 11.PAS.2021.Jama.S

Download

Included in

Neurology Commons

Share

COinS