Title:The Retrogenesis Model in Alzheimer’s Disease: Evidence and Pract ical Applications
Volume: 13
Issue: 1
Author(s): Saeed Ahmed*, Amandeep Kaur, Hema Venigalla, Hema M. Mekala, Navjot K. Brainch, Shahana Ayub and Mudasar Hassan
Affiliation:
- Nassau University Medical Center East Meadow, NY,United States
Keywords:
Alzheimer's disease, retrogenesis, dementia, mild cognitive impairment, cognitive decline, practical applications.
Abstract: Background: The increasing number of people living with Alzheimer’s disease (AD)
constitutes a growing global concern. At present, nearly 44 million people suffer from AD
worldwide, and these numbers are expected almost to double every 20 years. Given its high
prevalence and growing incidence, AD is one of the top causes of disabilities in later life, and this
takes an enormous toll on the caregivers.
Importance: It is tremendously important to explore new ways of understanding AD, as this may
improve the management of this growing medical, socio-economic, and public health care burden.
Conclusion: Evidence suggests that AD may evolve through the unique process of ‘retro-genesis’; a
decline that mirrors, in reverse order, brain development that occurs from birth. The retro-genesis
hypothesis distinguishes distinct stages, each one linked to levels of cognitive functioning in
developing children. The understanding of clinical correlations and practical applications of retrogenesis
theory may help caregivers to recognize different stages of AD, and to provide better care
with less burden.
