CNN’s Dr. Sanjay Gupta explores his own dementia risk

CNN’s Dr. Sanjay Gupta has reported on Alzheimer’s and other dementias over the years, but recently he became the subject as he explored his own dementia risk, knowing his family history with the disease. The takeaways were enlightening, though it may be some time before such tests are widely available to the general public and covered by insurance.

Gupta is not an ordinary patient; he is a brain surgeon. Yet in his report he shares his surprise about what he learned about his own brain during a “preventative neurology” visit at the Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases of Florida. While there he went through a battery of tests: blood, saliva to check oral health, genetic testing for the APOE4 gene, body composition, and a series of cognitive tests. In regards to the intense series of cognitive tests, Gupta said, “I felt like my brain was being cross-examined by a very skilled prosecutor.”

Dr. Richard Isaacson conducted the tests on Gupta and came to some interesting conclusions. He said the results suggested Gupta may have undiagnosed dyslexia. He also found a gene mutation that could explain low B12 levels, and suggested that Gupta take supplements to boost his Omega 3 levels. Gupta was surprised to learn about his elevated body inflammation. Isaacson also made recommendations when it comes to Gupta’s exercise regimen.

Of course, the cost of all of these tests aren’t affordable for the average person at this time. To his credit, Isaacson is working on a method to do many of these tests at home for free or at a reasonable cost. I just did a finger prick cholesterol test at home and it was simple and affordable, so I would definitely be interested in similar tests for Alzheimer’s risk. My cholesterol is a bit elevated and as discussed in the CNN report, there is believed to be a connection between high cholesterol and cognitive decline risk, so I’m taking steps to address that, as I know I carry a copy of the APOE4 gene so my Alzheimer’s risk is already elevated.

Not everyone wants to know their dementia risk, and while I think it should be a personal choice, I’m definitely in the camp of wanting as much data as possible. My dad had high cholesterol and took steps to alter his diet, but if he’d known his Alzheimer’s risk, would he have quit smoking sooner? Would it have made a difference? That’s impossible to say, but if there are simple things I can do to reduce my dementia risk, I’m open to considering the recommendations.

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