The study evaluated the psychological and behavioral impact of genetic risk assessment, specifically for one form of the Apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene, known as ApoE4, a well known risk marker for Alzheimer's disease. After one year, participants in the study who were told they were either positive or negative for ApoE4, or who did not receive disclosure, had no significant difference in tests of depression and anxiety.

"There has been concern that genetic testing for Alzheimer's disease would lead to misunderstandings, and cause depression and discrimination," said William Thies, Ph.D., Alzheimer's Association vice president for Medical & Scientific Affairs. "This study suggests that, with appropriate and accurate communication, genetic risk assessment doesn't have to be a fear-filled process for people."

About The Study

According to the researchers, the REVEAL study (Risk Evaluation and Education for Alzheimer's disease) is the first randomized trial to examine the impact of providing risk assessment, including APOE gene marker disclosure, for Alzheimer's disease.

Scientists led by Robert C. Green, M.D., M.P.H., of Boston University School of Medicine, randomized 162 study participants from Boston into two groups; one received assessment based on age, family history, gender and disclosed APOE genotype, the other received assessment based only on age, family history and gender.

After one year, there were no significant differences among the groups (ApoE4 positive, ApoE4 negative, or no disclosure) on the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale and Beck Anxiety Inventory. Overall, 95 percent of participants reported that they would choose risk assessment again, and 82 percent would recommend risk assessment to family or friends.

"As new treatments are developed to delay the onset of Alzheimer's, it is going to be critical to identify those at greatest risk," Green said. "At the same time, it will be very important that genetic risk assessment is done carefully and communicated accurately so individuals feel empowered by the results and are able to maintain a positive outlook and a good quality of life."

Those in the study who tested positive for ApoE4 and were alerted to their genetic status were 5.8 times more likely to have altered their long-term care insurance than individuals who did not receive genotype disclosure.

"The study suggests that people who are armed with useful information about their possible future healthcare needs will take steps to protect themselves financially," Green said.

About the Alzheimer's Association

The Alzheimer's Association, the world leader in Alzheimer research and support, is the first and largest voluntary health organization dedicated to finding prevention methods, treatments and an eventual cure for Alzheimer's. For 25 years, the donor-supported, not-for-profit Alzheimer's Association has provided reliable information and care consultation; created supportive services for families; increased funding for dementia research; and influenced public policy changes.

The Alzheimer's Association's vision is a world without Alzheimer's and its dual mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research and to enhance care and support for individuals, their families and caregivers. For more information, visit http://www.alz.org/ or call 800-272-3900.

   -- Robert C. Green - The REVEAL Study: The Impact of Genetic Risk
      Assessment with APOE Disclosure for Alzheimer's Disease  (funder:
      National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of
      Health/National Institute on Aging)

      EMBARGOED FOR RELEASE UNTIL MONDAY, JUNE 20, 2005, 3:15 PM ET

All materials to be presented at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference on Prevention of Dementia are embargoed for publication and broadcast until the date and time of presentation, unless the Alzheimer's Association provides written notice of change of date/time in advance.

Source: Alzheimer's Association

CONTACT: Alzheimer's Association media line, +1-312-335-4078,
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