Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

Health Topics

Advancements and Hope During National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

German psychiatrist Dr. Alois Alzheimer discovered Alzheimer's disease in 1906. He had a patient named Auguste Deter who suffered from memory loss, paranoia, and other psychological changes. After Deter died, Alzheimer examined her brain and found abnormal deposits and shrinkage around nerve cells, which are now known as amyloid plaques and tau tangles. Every November, National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month draws attention to a condition that affects millions of lives and families across the United States. Established in 1983 by President Ronald Reagan, this observance aims to increase awareness about Alzheimer’s disease, highlight advancements in research, and inspire hope for a future free from its devastating effects.

Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases worldwide. It is a progressive neurological disorder that impairs memory, thinking, and behavior, ultimately making it difficult for individuals to carry out daily activities. Today, over 6.7 million Americans aged 65 and older live with Alzheimer’s, a number projected to nearly double by 2050 without medical breakthroughs 【1】【2】.


The disease also places a significant burden on caregivers and the healthcare system, with Alzheimer’s care costs reaching an estimated $345 billion in 2023 in the U.S. alone 【1】.

Advancements in Alzheimer’s Research

Recent years have brought promising developments in Alzheimer’s research, offering hope to millions of patients and families:

  1. New Treatment Approvals
    In 2021, the FDA approved Aducanumab (Aduhelm), the first drug targeting amyloid plaques—a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease—in nearly two decades. This was followed by the approval of Lecanemab (Leqembi) in 2023, another amyloid-targeting therapy that has shown promise in slowing cognitive decline in early-stage Alzheimer’s patients 【3】【4】.
  2. Breakthroughs in Biomarkers
    Advances in diagnostic tools, such as amyloid PET scans and blood tests for beta-amyloid and tau proteins, allow for earlier and more accurate detection of Alzheimer’s. Early diagnosis is crucial for treatment effectiveness and planning 【5】.
  3. Lifestyle and Risk Reduction Studies
    Research suggests that lifestyle modifications, including regular physical activity, a heart-healthy diet, cognitive training, and social engagement, may reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Studies like the U.S. POINTER trial are currently investigating these interventions further 【6】.
  4. The Role of Genetics
    Progress in genetic research, particularly the identification of risk genes like APOE-e4, has deepened our understanding of Alzheimer’s mechanisms and paved the way for targeted therapies 【7】.
  5. The Promise of Precision Medicine
    Precision medicine approaches, which tailor treatments based on a person’s genetic makeup and disease stage, are emerging as a powerful tool in Alzheimer’s research. Personalized interventions could transform the way the disease is treated 【8】.

Hopes for the Future

As research continues to gain momentum, several developments inspire hope for an Alzheimer’s-free future:

  • Disease-Modifying Treatments: Researchers aim to develop drugs that not only slow disease progression but also repair damage caused by Alzheimer’s.
  • Preventative Strategies: With a deeper understanding of lifestyle and genetic risk factors, prevention strategies may soon become as common as treatments.
  • Global Collaboration: International initiatives like the World Dementia Council and funding from organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association have fostered collaboration and increased resources for research.
  • Brain Health Equity: Efforts to address disparities in Alzheimer’s research and care, particularly in underserved communities, are gaining traction. Inclusive studies will ensure that advancements benefit all populations 【9】.

Raising Awareness and Supporting Families

National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month also emphasizes the importance of supporting families and caregivers, who often bear the emotional and physical challenges of the disease. Resources like the Alzheimer’s Association’s 24/7 Helpline (800-272-3900) and local support groups offer vital assistance to those affected.

What Can You Do?

  • Get Informed: Understanding the symptoms, risk factors, and resources for Alzheimer’s is a crucial first step.
  • Advocate: Support policies and funding for Alzheimer’s research and caregiving services.
  • Participate: Consider joining clinical trials or supporting research organizations to help advance scientific discoveries.
  • Care for Caregivers: Recognize and support the caregivers in your life—they are the unsung heroes in the fight against Alzheimer’s.

Alzheimer's discovery was a major breakthrough in understanding neurodegenerative disorders. He set a new standard for relating symptoms to physical brain changes by establishing close relationships with his patients and using new scientific tools. While Alzheimer’s disease remains a formidable challenge, advancements in research and care provide renewed hope for patients and families. This November, let us not only raise awareness about the disease but also commit to supporting those affected and championing the quest for a cure.

Together, we can move closer to a world where Alzheimer’s is a memory of the past.

References

  1. Alzheimer’s Association. (2023). 2023 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures. Retrieved from alz.org.
  2. CDC. (2023). Healthy Aging: Alzheimer’s Disease. Retrieved from cdc.gov.
  3. FDA. (2021). FDA Approves Aducanumab for Alzheimer’s Disease. Retrieved from fda.gov.
  4. Alzheimer’s Association. (2023). Lecanemab Approval News. Retrieved from alz.org.
  5. NIH. Advancements in Alzheimer’s Biomarkers. Retrieved from nih.gov.
  6. U.S. POINTER. Study on Lifestyle Interventions. Retrieved from alzheimers.gov.
  7. Genetics Home Reference. APOE Gene and Alzheimer’s Disease. Retrieved from ghr.nlm.nih.gov.
  8. Mayo Clinic. Precision Medicine in Alzheimer’s Care. Retrieved from mayoclinic.org.
  9. World Dementia Council. Equity in Alzheimer’s Research. Retrieved from worlddementiacouncil.org.

More Stories

Traumatic Brain Injury Awareness Month: Understanding, Preventing, and Supporting Recovery

March is recognized as Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing public knowledge about TBIs, their impact, and the importance of prevention and treatment. Traumatic brain injuries affect millions of people each year, often leading to long-term disabilities and requiring extensive rehabilitation (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023). By dedicating a month to TBI awareness, we collectively work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive society for those affected by brain injuries, while also striving to prevent future incidents through education and advocacy.

The Impact of Traumatic Brain Injury

TBI is a disruption in normal brain function caused by a sudden jolt or blow to the head. The severity of TBI can range from mild concussions to severe injuries resulting in cognitive and physical impairments. According to the CDC, approximately 1.5 million Americans sustain a TBI annually, and nearly 230,000 are hospitalized due to these injuries (CDC, 2023). Common causes include falls, motor vehicle accidents, sports-related injuries, and combat-related trauma among military personnel.

Keep ReadingShow less
Black Maternal Health Week: Addressing Racial Disparities in Maternal Care
Photo by Shelly Shell on Unsplash

Black Maternal Health Week: Addressing Racial Disparities in Maternal Care

Black Maternal Health Week (BMHW), observed annually from April 11-17, is a national campaign founded by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance in 2018. It raises awareness about the disproportionate maternal health challenges faced by Black women in the United States and advocates for systemic change in maternal healthcare (Black Mamas Matter Alliance, 2018). Addressing Black maternal health is crucial for achieving health equity, improving overall public health outcomes, and ensuring that all women have access to safe, respectful, and high-quality maternal care. It requires a multifaceted approach involving policy changes, healthcare system reforms, and efforts to combat racism and discrimination in medical settings.

The Urgency of Black Maternal Health

The United States has one of the highest maternal mortality rates among developed nations, and Black women are disproportionately affected. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Black women are nearly three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than white women (CDC, 2022). Structural racism, implicit bias in healthcare, and limited access to quality medical services contribute to these disparities.

Keep ReadingShow less

World Autism Day- Light it Up Blue

Every year on April 2nd, World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) is observed to raise awareness and foster acceptance for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Established by the United Nations in 2007, this day highlights the importance of early diagnosis, inclusive education, and policies that promote the well-being of autistic individuals worldwide (United Nations, 2007). Autism touches the lives of everyone in ways that are both profound and personal. Whether you’re a parent, sibling, teacher, friend, or simply part of a community, autism has a ripple effect that goes far beyond the individual diagnosed with it. It is not just about the challenges—it’s about the beauty of seeing the world through a different lens and learning to embrace diversity in its truest form.

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in social communication, behavior, and sensory processing. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 36 children in the United States is diagnosed with ASD (CDC, 2023). The spectrum nature of autism means that its manifestations vary widely, making tailored support and understanding essential for each individual.

Keep ReadingShow less
The Truth About Measles

Morbillivirus measles infection.jpg - Wikipedia

The Truth About Measles

Measles might sound like a disease of the past, but it’s making a comeback in certain areas. Recently, a contagious person, who was not vaccinated, went to an NHL game, exposing everyone attending at the Bell Center in Montreal. There is a cluster of people with the measles in Texas. 2025 already has more cases of the measles than all of 2024. With more cases appearing worldwide, it’s important to understand what causes measles, its symptoms, and why getting vaccinated is the best way to stay protected.

What Causes Measles?

Measles is caused by the measles virus (MeV), a highly contagious airborne virus. It spreads when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even talks, releasing virus particles into the air【1】. What makes measles especially dangerous is its ability to linger in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours【2】. That means you can catch it just by being in the same room as an infected person—even if they’ve already left.

Keep ReadingShow less
5-4-3-2-1: Flipping the Script on Food and Freedom
Photo by Josh Hild on Unsplash

5-4-3-2-1: Flipping the Script on Food and Freedom

I was 60 years old, sitting in my doctor’s office, overweight, frustrated, and exhausted, seeking yet another plan to lose weight. I had done this before. Many times. But this time, something was different. My doctor looked me dead in my eyes and said, "Stress will kill you." Who? Me? Stressed? And for the first time, in my forty-year career, I considered the sobering possibility that my job might be stressful.

I had spent decades excelling in my career, pouring everything into my job in advertising and media. But while my work flourished, my health suffered. Like many Black women, I had been conditioned to push through, to be resilient, to be strong. But the reality was that my strength was coming at a cost. My body bore the burden of stress, trauma, an unhealthy relationship with myself, and poor food and emotion management skills. And I didn’t even know it.

Keep ReadingShow less
×