A recent study has revealed that Alzheimer’s disease may be transmitted from one person to another during certain medical procedures.

The study undertaken by University College London has found that it is theoretically possible to become infected through blood transfusions, brain surgery and invasive dental treatment, such as root canal.

During the study, scientists discovered that it is possible for the ‘seeds’ of dementia to be transferred from the brain tissue of one person to another. They also found discovered that the proteins that cause dementia can stick to metal surfaces, like surgical instruments, and are resistant to conventional sterilisation.

It has raised questions about the safety of particular medical procedures which involve surgical equipment or the transfer of contaminated tissues.

Scientists discovered the news whilst studying the brains of eight people who died of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. All had developed the disease after being injected with human growth hormones.

The investigation has revealed for the first time that Alzheimer’s disease could be passed between people. However, scientists have emphasised that the new evidence is still preliminary and should therefore not stop anyone from having surgery.