Australian actor, Christopher Hemsworth has revealed he has a high risk of developing Alzheimer.
The 39-year-old actor shared his grief on Thursday, 17th November, after he made a heartbreaking discovery about his health on his new Disney+ show Limitless.
Hemsworth confided in George Stephanopoulos during an appearance on Good Morning America, revealing he has a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s Disease than the general population after undergoing extensive bloodwork during an episode in the series.
In a clip shared on GMA from the National Geographic show, which sees Hemsworth put his physical and mental strength to the ultimate test, the actor was told by longevity specialist Dr. Peter Attia that he has two copies of APOE4.
According to Dr. Attia, Hemsworth’s risk of Alzheimer’s is “eight to ten times higher” than most people because APOE4 is the strongest risk factor gene for Alzheimer’s disease.
Dr. Attia told Hemsworth that:
“We’ve got every blood test one can get and you have two copies of APOE4, a set from your mom and a set from your dad… that means you have an increased risk of Alzheimer’s Disease,”
In the same clip, Hemsworth explained that his “biggest fear” is forgetting his family.
He said: “The idea that I won’t be able to remember the life I’ve experienced or my wife, my kids, this is probably my biggest fear.”
He further explained that the result has spurred him on to make some changes in his life.
“It very quickly became another wonderful motivation to make some changes and arm myself with all the tools to live a healthier, better life”.
Meanwhile, Dr. Attia called Hemsworth’s test results a “blessing” as they can motivate him to look after his brain health.
“It’s my belief that if we take every step possible, we can reduce your risk to that of anyone else,” Dr. Attia told Hemsworth.
The actor added:
“I think any of the motivations for living better can come in many shapes and forms. Whatever I’m going to do now to protect my brain health will benefit every other aspect of my health and wellbeing.”
Christopher Hemsworth rose to prominence playing Kim Hyde in the Australian television series Home and Away before beginning a film career in Hollywood.
He is famous for movies such as 12 Strong, Thor: Love and Thunder, Extraction, Avengers: Infinity War.
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