The cause of Alzheimer’s disease is unknown. It is possible that it is caused by a combination of various genetic and environmental factors that trigger the process in which brain nerve cells are destroyed. Genetics can definitely play a role in early onset Alzheimer’s, which is a rare form of the disease that usually runs in families. A variety of environmental factors that may play a role in Alzheimer’s disease or that trigger the disease in people who have genetic susceptibility have been studied by researchers. Research suggests that there is a possible association between serious head injuries in early adulthood and Alzheimer’s development.
Sources:
Alzheimer's Association. 19 Apr. 2011. Web. 22 Apr. 2011. <http://www.alz.org/index.asp>.
Simon, Harvey. "Alzheimer's Disease Background - Alzheimer's Disease Health Information - NY Times Health." Health News - The New York Times. 22 June 2010. Web. 16 Apr. 2011. <http://health.nytimes.com/health/guides/disease/alzheimers-disease/background.html>.
