Is Lewy Body Dementia Inherited? What You Should Know

Written by Nguyenjessica

Published on July 8 2025

Lewy Body Dementia isn’t usually inherited, but genes can play a role. Let’s explore what science really says.

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Key Points

Most cases of Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) are not inherited.

Certain gene mutations may increase risk, but they're rare.

Family history can raise awareness, not guarantee diagnosis.

Healthy lifestyle choices still matter.

Talk to a doctor if you're concerned about genetics.

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Table of content

What Is Lewy Body Dementia?

Is It Genetic? The Real Answer

What Genes Are Linked to LBD?

Family History: What It Means (and Doesn’t)

Can You Prevent LBD?

What Is Lewy Body Dementia?

Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, movement, and behavior. It’s the second most common type of dementia after Alzheimer’s. What makes LBD different? Tiny protein clumps called “Lewy bodies” build up in the brain, causing confusion, hallucinations, and Parkinson-like symptoms.

Is It Genetic? The Real Answer

Here’s the short version: most people with LBD didn’t inherit it from their parents.

Unlike some diseases that run clearly in families, LBD is usually sporadic, meaning it happens by chance. But there’s a little more to the story…

While the majority of cases aren't inherited, a small number of people with LBD may have a genetic link. If your parent or sibling had LBD, your risk might be slightly higher — but it’s not a guarantee you’ll get it.

What Genes Are Linked to LBD?

Research has found some possible gene mutations linked to Lewy Body Dementia, including:

GBA: A gene linked to both Parkinson’s disease and LBD. People with this mutation may have a higher risk.
SNCA: This gene helps produce alpha-synuclein — the protein that forms Lewy bodies.
APOE ε4: Commonly associated with Alzheimer’s, it may also increase LBD risk.

But remember: having these genes doesn’t mean you’ll definitely develop the disease — it just means your risk may be slightly higher.

Family History: What It Means (and Doesn’t)

If someone in your family had LBD, it’s understandable to worry. But most cases still happen in people without any known family history.

Here’s what to do:

Talk to your doctor or a genetic counselor if you're concerned.

Stay informed — awareness is power.

Don't panic. A family history increases risk slightly, not drastically.

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Can You Prevent LBD?

There’s no guaranteed way to prevent Lewy Body Dementia. But keeping your brain and body healthy might lower your risk:

Stay active — physically and mentally.
Eat a brain-friendly diet (think: Mediterranean).
Get enough sleep.
Manage stress and mental health.
Control blood pressure and cholesterol.
These habits won’t make you immune, but they can make a big difference over time.