October 4, 2023 – Many researchers are in search of risk aspects that increase the likelihood of developing the disease dementia or more specifically, Alzheimer's disease. This is a superb thing, since the more we learn about potential risks, the higher we will prevent them.
There isn't any cure for dementia, and an estimated 10% of Americans over age 65 suffer from it, including 6.7 million individuals with Alzheimer's disease.
And these numbers are prone to increase in the long run.
A treatment for early Alzheimer's disease, Lecanemab, was approved by the FDA this 12 months, giving some people hope. But what about “worried people,” i.e. people who find themselves cognitively normal and wish to forestall dementia?
Without definitive studies saying, “This causes dementia,” researchers are in search of connections. This is an early type of research which will reveal a connection between a risk factor and dementia/Alzheimer's. This doesn't mean things like sleep apnea, constipation, or childhood nightmares definitely cause Dementia. But these studies might help point future researchers in the best direction.
WebMD and our sister healthcare skilled site, Medscape, have published plenty of these association studies for the reason that starting of this 12 months. The infographic below, created by Emily Berry, includes a number of the highlights. And after the graphic, you'll find links to the dementia risk stories we wrote in 2023. Note: Medscape requires registration to read stories, nevertheless it is free.
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