Early-onset Alzheimer's disease shows different warning signs from established risk factors

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A study found that people diagnosed with Alzheimer's before age 65 often had a range of health problems in the five years before diagnosis, including depression, dizziness, epilepsy and cerebrovascular disorders. Tinnitus and hearing loss were also more common six to 10 years beforehand, suggesting early-onset disease may have warning signs beyond established risk factors.

A study by the University of Oulu and the University of Eastern Finland found that people who developed Alzheimer's disease before the age of 65 accumulated a wide range of health problems, particularly during the five years preceding diagnosis. Compared with matched controls, they were more likely to experience depression, dizziness, headaches, traumatic brain injuries, epilepsy, cerebrovascular disorders, thyroid diseases and problems related to heavy alcohol use. Tinnitus and hearing loss were already more common six to 10 years before diagnosis.