The ‘Thor’ actor says he is not retiring, but wants to spend more time with his family and take precautions.
Chris Hemsworth plans to take “a good chunk of time off” after discovering he is genetically predisposed to Alzheimer’s disease.
The 39-year-old Marvel star discovered in a recent episode of her Disney+ health docuseries “Limitless” that she has two copies of the APOE4 gene, which studies have linked to an increased risk of the disease.
“We did a deep dive into my blood work and genetics and found some indicators that put me in a very high-risk category for Alzheimer’s, and it was a real shock — the first time I found out,” Hames said. Worth said. Preview clip for the Today Show’s “Sunday Today.”
Show host Willie Guest said that once Hemsworth finishes his current projects and contractual obligations, the actor plans to take some time off to spend time with his family.
Hemsworth made similar comments a Vanity Fair Interview Published on Thursday. He emphasized that he is not retiring and has not been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, but said that working on “Infinite” made him think about his own mortality.
“It really sparked something in me to take some time off,” she told the magazine. “Now that I’m done with this tour this week, I’m going home and I’m going to spend a good chunk of time and just take it easy. Be with the kids, be with my wife.”
Hemsworth said the discovery means he can start making lifestyle changes and taking preventative measures – and inspire others to do the same.
“I was presented with a version of the episode where we didn’t talk about it,” he told Vanity Fair. “I thought, ‘No, look, if this is a motivation for people to take better care of themselves and also understand that there are steps you can take – then fantastic.’
The National Institutes of Health estimates that about 25% of people have one copy of the APOE4 gene, while only 2% to 3% have two. Having the gene does not guarantee a future diagnosis of Alzheimer’s, but the agency says it is the “strongest risk factor gene” for the disease.
While there are no definitive measures to prevent the onset of the disease, The Alzheimer’s Association says: Lifestyle changes such as regular activity, heart-healthy habits and social connections can help reduce risk.
“infinite” which premiered Wednesday, is a six-part National Geographic series that explores scientific research on the human body with a focus on longevity.
Hemsworth did not say how long he plans to take a break. His other current projects include the “Mad Max” prequel “Furiosa” and Netflix’s “Extraction 2;” Included. Deadline says. Production has wrapped on both projects.