By Rachel D. Egan, PMHNP-BC

The APOE gene governs the protein apolipoprotein E. Mutations at this site are one of many potential risk factors for development of Alzheimer’s disease. Other potential risk factors include head injuries, family history, and lifestyle choices like alcohol use, smoking, etc.

The decision of whether to get APOE testing is very personal. Some people feel they want to get the most information possible about their health forecast. While your APOE gene type can’t be changed, if you know that it exists as an additional risk factor for you, you can take extra precautions to guard against the development of Alzheimer’s in the future.

If you would like to know if this exists as a potential risk factor for you, or if you would just like to receive general counseling to mitigate Alzheimer’s risk, please reach out to us to discuss!