More gen on dementia

Dementigen. Is that even a word? Here is a suggested definition: Any factor that contributes to the causation of dementia.

And now, we are able to assert with scientific confidence that alcohol is a significant cause of dementia.

Professor Jurgen Rehn, keynote speaker at the latest national Alcohol Action conference, presented new data showing that around 40% of the causation of early-onset dementia (dementia with onset less than 65 years) is caused by heavy drinking.

Yes, alcohol is a dementigen, as well as being a carcinogen and an aggressigen. Professor Doug Sellman, chair in Psychiatry & Addiction Medicine, University of Otago, medical spokesperson, Alcohol Action NZ