A traumatic event that leaves you in a permanent state of shock could trigger your risk of Alzheimer's in the future. This was the main conclusion of a new scientific study published in the American Neurological Association's Annals of Neurology. After analyzing samples of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which protects and nourishes the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), the researchers found that participants with higher levels of stress had more proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease in their bodies. However, this correlation was found to apply only if the stressful events had occurred during childhood or middle age. Also read: The 'trick' to a healthy brain involves consuming this nutrient (Portuguese version) Carol Opdebeeck, professor of psychology at Manchester Metropolitan University in the United Kingdom, wrote in The Conversation that this study is proof that "stressful life events, such as bereavement or divorce, put us at risk of developing dementia in later life." The authors of the study say that stressful events can lead the body to release glucocorticoids (stress hormones), which can damage brain cells. Despite these results, they argue that more studies are needed. Also read: Nutritionists reveal the seven best foods with an 'anti-aging' effect (Portuguese version) It should be noted that Alzheimer's is a neurodegenerative disease that causes progressive memory loss and cognitive decline, language disorders, and even difficulty performing tasks such as paying bills and handling money, and that it is the most common form of dementia. Dementia is a generic term used to designate a set of diseases that are characterized by cognitive changes that may be associated with memory loss, language changes, and disorientation in time or space. There is no treatment for most of them. However, it has been proven that about 40% of dementia, such as Alzheimer's (the most common form of dementia), can be prevented or delayed. The World Health Organization estimates that there are 47.5 million people with dementia worldwide, a number that could reach 75.6 million in 2030 and almost triple in 2050, to 135.5 million. Also read: Microplastics detected in testicles. Scientists didn't even want to believe it (Portuguese version)