Recent research from McGill University has shown a link between H. pylori (H. pylori) infection and an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease in people aged 50 years and older. The study, which analysed health data from more than 4 million UK residents, found that people with symptomatic H. pylori infection were at higher risk of developing Alzheimer's. This study highlights the importance of investigating potential prevention strategies, including Helicobacter pylori, in response to the rising global prevalence of Alzheimer's disease.
New research suggests that stomach bacteria found in two-thirds of the global population may be associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease.
The study, published in Alzheimer's and Dementia: Journal of the Alzheimer's Association, investigated whether clinically evident Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection increases the risk of Alzheimer's disease in people age 50 and older. Common infections can trigger indigestion, gastritis, ulcers, and even stomach cancer.
A team of researchers from McGill University analysed health data from more than 4 million people aged 50 and over in the UK between 1988 and 2019. Studies have found that people with symptomatic H. pylori infection have an 11% higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, the most common type of dementia. While the nature of Alzheimer's disease is multifaceted, these findings build on a growing body of evidence suggesting a potential role for infections, particularly Helicobacter pylori, in its development. The study opens avenues for future research, particularly to explore whether the bacterium can be effective in preventing Alzheimer's disease in some people.
Alzheimer's disease affects millions of people around the world, and that number is expected to rise dramatically as demographics change, researchers say. "Given the ageing global population, the number of people with dementia is expected to triple in the next 40 years. However, there is still a lack of effective ** protocols for this disease," said Dr Paul Brassard, senior author of the study and a professor in the Department of Medicine at McGill University.
We hope the results of this survey will provide insight into the potential role of H. pylori in dementia to inform the development of prevention strategies, such as personalised** plans, to reduce infections at the population level," said Dr Brassard, a physician in public health and preventive medicine at McGill University Health.