UK study: Chemicals in plastics could be a risk factor for Alzheimer’s

Lexington, KY – New Link Between Chemicals in Plastics and Alzheimer’s

A pioneering study at the University of Kentucky has indicated a potential link between everyday plastic chemicals, known as bisphenols, and Alzheimer’s disease. The research suggests these widely used chemicals may trigger key hallmarks of the disease, such as blood-brain barrier dysfunction and memory problems.

Critical Environmental Risk Factors

The study’s principal investigator, Professor Anika Hartz, opened up about the significance of the discovery. “Identifying environmental risk factors for Alzheimer’s is critical to mitigate cognitive decline in humans,” she expressed, advising the public to minimize their exposure to plastics. Under her leadership, the UK research team was among the first to classify environmental bisphenols as clinically relevant risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease.

Bisphenols: A Hidden Threat

Hartz pointed out that bisphenols are a prevalent component in many mass-produced plastics, including food containers, water bottles, and can liners, making human exposure to bisphenols virtually unavoidable. That becomes a grave issue, considering previous studies have associated bisphenols with endocrine system disruption, which regulates hormones in our body, including the brain.

The Path Forward

The goal of this study is to generate critical knowledge on how environmental factors influence human health, and consequently, the burden of age-related diseases and conditions. In the larger picture, it is hoped that their findings will pave the way for evidence-based health management strategies aimed at preserving cognitive function.

Collaboration for Advancement

Dr Hartz acknowledged the collaborative nature of this groundbreaking work, recognizing a team of researchers from multiple disciplines within the education and medical community. They have combined forces to investigate this complex issue.

Addressing Larger Goals

The University of Kentucky’s HealthCare system represents over 10,000 dedicated health care professionals committed to providing advanced subspecialty care across the Commonwealth. This important research aligns with their mission to use cutting-edge science for the benefit of all. As an academic research institution, their focus extends beyond addressing present challenges. They are continually striving for the development of potential cures, innovative treatment protocols, and policies.

With this endeavor, the institution continues its investment in education and progress, emphasizing the transformation of healthcare through its six health professions colleges. Their initiative aims to train the next generation of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals to deliver the highest standard of care.

Moving Towards a Healthier Kentucky

In the end, this progressive outlook encapsulates UK HealthCare’s commitment to build a healthier Kentucky for present and future generations. This crucial research on bisphenols and their impact on Alzheimer’s disease underscores their commitment to this goal.

Contact for More Information

If interested parties require more information, they can get in touch with Lindsay Travis at Lindsay.Travis@uky.edu or call at 859-257-1076.