Chris actor Hemsworth said he was taking a break from his career following learning he had an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. The Thor star made the discovery following undergoing tests as part of his documentary series Limitless of Disney+. He stated to Vanity Fair that tests have confirmed its “greatest fear“, adding that he was now going to try to take “preventive measures“.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia and can lead to memory, confusion and communication problems. Chris Hemsworth learned that he had two copies of the ApoE4 gene, one from his mother and one from his father, which the makes eight to ten times more susceptible to develop the disease than people who do not have both copies of the gene. About 2-3% of the population is carrier two copies of the gene.
The new “really triggered something in me to want to take some time off (…) And you look at preventing Alzheimer’s disease, the benefit of preventive measures is that it affects the rest of your life“, did he declare.
“It’s regarding sleep management, stress management, nutrition, movement, fitness. These are sort of the same tools that need to be applied consistently.“
Series Limitless Chris watch Hemsworth tester body and explore ways to live longer, healthier lives.
He explained that he had not been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, but had been warned of the increased risk. “It is not a pre-determining gene, but it is a strong indication“, did he declare. “Ten years ago, I think it was seen more as determining“.
Hemsworth said the original plan for the series would have seen him receive all of his genetic test results live on camera – but series creator Darren Aronofskytold him privately once they got the results.
The Marvel star was later given the option to remove all references to Alzheimer’s from the show, but decided to include her genetic risk for Alzheimer’s to improve awareness and understanding. “What mattered to me was not to manipulate the disease, not to dramatize it and not to make it some kind of attempt at empathy or whatever for entertainment“, did he declare.
The actor also confirmed to the magazine that his grandfather had Alzheimer’s disease.
We will soon be able to see the actor in AngryFollowing Mad Max by George Miller, which wrapped filming earlier this month. The 39-year-old said he was going to take a break following finishing the publicity tour of Limitlessas well as its other contracts.
He will return home to Byron Bay, Australia to spend time with his partner, actress Elsa Pataksand their three children.
