In a new study, researchers said they have found evidence to suggest Alzheimer's disease may be transmitted in surgeries. The researchers at University College London suggested that the disease could pass on through contaminated medical instruments and blood transfusions.

The Alzheimer's Society of Ireland said that the study's results are alarming, but the researchers should be careful before revealing any results. Tina Leonard, head of advocacy of the organization, said that the study has revealed something disturbing, but at present, there is no proof that medical instruments or a medical procedure can transport the disease from one person to another.

Brian Lawlor, Professor of Old Age Psychiatry of St James's Hospital, said the study should not be considered as final word on the topic. It was a small study and to more on the subject, there is need of more work, Lawlor added.

Until now, age has been considered as one of the biggest risk for Alzheimer's disease. Adding to that, genetics, obesity, smoking and high blood pressure are some of the others risks linked to the disease.

The new study has suggested that there are possibilities that the dementia 'seeds' are transferred from one individual to another. According to the study researchers, "it could be theoretically possible to become infected with Alzheimer's seeds through a blood transfusion, brain surgery, or invasive dental work, like a root canal operation". And as the incubation period can be of about four decades, a number of individuals could be unaware that they have been contaminated.