Men may face double the dementia risk due to a common gene. Here’s why, what it means for you, and the lifestyle habits that can lower your risk.
The Gene That Doubles Dementia Risk for Men: What You Need to Know
Why a common genetic variant might be silently raising your risk—and how science is catching up
Dementia has long been one of the greatest health challenges of aging, affecting millions worldwide. But new research is now revealing that your genes may be playing a much bigger role than we previously thought—especially if you’re male.
Recent groundbreaking findings have shown that a common gene variant may double the risk of dementia for men. If that sounds concerning, don’t worry—we’ll unpack exactly what this means, what researchers are saying, and how you can protect your brain health regardless of your genetic hand.
Let’s break it down.
🧬 The Gene Behind the Risk: APOE vs. TMEM106B
If you’ve followed dementia research, you’ve probably heard of the APOE ε4 gene, a well-established genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. But the new culprit in the spotlight is TMEM106B, specifically a variant known as rs1990622.
In a 2024 study published in Nature Communications, researchers discovered that men who carry this TMEM106B variant have twice the risk of developing dementia compared to non-carriers. Interestingly, the same elevated risk was not observed in women, sparking new questions about how gender and genetics interact in neurodegenerative diseases. Read the full study here.
🧠 Why Are Men More Vulnerable?
Scientists believe the difference may be hormonal or related to immune function. Estrogen, for example, is known to offer some protective benefits to the female brain. Men, lacking that hormonal shield, may be more susceptible to the damaging effects of this particular variant.
What makes TMEM106B even more interesting is that it affects the lysosomes—the "waste disposal" system of our cells. When lysosomes malfunction, toxic proteins can build up in the brain, leading to neurodegeneration.
Quick recap:
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Gene variant: TMEM106B rs1990622
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Effect: Doubles dementia risk in men
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Mechanism: Impairs brain’s cellular waste system
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Why men?: Possibly hormonal and immune factors
🔬 The Bigger Picture: Genetics Isn’t Destiny
Before anyone panics, here’s the key takeaway: carrying a risk gene doesn’t guarantee you’ll get dementia. It’s about risk, not certainty.
According to Professor David Curtis of University College London Genetics Institute, “These findings give us a clearer view of dementia risk, but lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and education remain powerful tools in prevention.”
In fact, recent research shows that:
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Regular aerobic exercise can improve memory and cognition (Harvard Health)
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A Mediterranean diet lowers Alzheimer’s risk (NIH study)
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Lifelong learning and brain training reduce cognitive decline (Lancet Commission)
So while genes like TMEM106B may load the gun, your lifestyle often pulls—or doesn’t pull—the trigger.
👨⚕️ What Should Men Do Now?
If you’re concerned about your dementia risk:
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Talk to your doctor about genetic testing if you have a family history of dementia.
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Focus on brain-healthy lifestyle changes:
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Eat more leafy greens, berries, and omega-3-rich fish.
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Move more—aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
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Sleep well—quality sleep helps your brain clear toxins.
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Stay socially connected and engaged in mentally challenging activities.
🧭 The Future of Dementia Prevention
The discovery of TMEM106B’s role in male dementia risk is just the start. Precision medicine is advancing fast, with more gender-specific and personalized treatments likely on the horizon. Trials targeting lysosomal function are already underway.
Curious about cutting-edge dementia treatments? Check out:
👉 Could CRISPR Cure Alzheimer’s? (Internal link)
As science catches up, the best thing we can do is stay informed, proactive, and hopeful.
✅ Final Thoughts
Dementia isn’t just about genetics—it’s about choices, awareness, and the exciting advances of modern science. If you’re a man carrying this variant, you’re not doomed; you’re simply informed—and that’s the first step toward a healthier, sharper future.
Your brain deserves that effort.
Tags: #Genetics #Dementia #Men’sHealth #BrainHealth #Alzheimers #Longevity #Neuroscience #PersonalizedMedicine
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