The New show on National Geographic of Disney plus; “A mission to live better for longer” of Chris Hemsworth made him come face to face with his “biggest fear” of developing Alzheimer says the “Thor” actor. Does this mean that Chris Hemsworth is at risk of Alzheimer’s disease?
In one of the episodes the 39 year old actor underwent genetic testing to learn more about his overall health and wellbeing. Through which it was evident that he had the ApoE4 gene which was connected to Alzheimer disease.
“Although inheriting ApoE4 does not mean a person will develop the disease, the gene is strongest risk factor for Alzheimer disease.” A 2021 study by the National Institutes of Health says. The actor said, “The idea that I won’t be able to remember the life I have experienced, or my wife, my kids, is probably my biggest fear.” In fifth episode. The study also says that 25% of the population generally has one gene while 2% to 3% has 2 genes as per research.
During filming the show’s doctor told Chris about the result of the test off camera. He was really shocked after the doctors conversation he said while talking to Vanity fair. I was told that I am 8 to 10 times likely to develop Alzheimer than general population. But, the National Institutes of Health says that it also depends on the early onset which can happen anytime between 30 to 60 years of age. This disease has family history in Hemsworth’s family and that they have a significant experience.
His grandfather has Alzheimer, He says in the show, “He doesn’t remember anything, neither his kids nor his grandchildren, it is very heart breaking and shocking sometimes.” He told Vanity Fair recently that, “there are some days when his grandfather is really joyful and will give you a big hug while the other times he doesn’t remember much.” “Sometimes he speaks Dutch his original language while other times he tries to speak English. Many a times he speaks combination of both and adds words of his own to it.” He quoted.
Despite of all this Attia the doctor assures Hemsworth that their are possible measures which can reduce the chance of this disease. It is also found that with physical activity, blood pressure control and cognitive training one can enhance their memory, reasoning and processing speed thus warding off the early onset of disease as per National Institute of Aging.
Even if this information may not help you live longer, yet it will help you live better right now. He says. Whatever you do in benefiting present will always benefit your future self. Live a life of gratitude and love as long as you can. In the end he shares his insights with Vanity fair by saying what matters is making a most out of life you have right now as far as possible.