Rates of Alzheimer’s disease are rising, making it more important than ever to understand what the disease is, what the warning signs are, and the steps to try to stay brain-healthy.
Better knowledge regarding the disease is the focus of Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, presented by the Alzheimer’s Association. This month, in particular, the organization is encouraging everyone to get involved and help raise awareness regarding this devastating brain disorder.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2013 about 5 million Americans had Alzheimer’s, and by 2050, this number is expected to grow almost three-fold to 14 million. Raising awareness is one way to fight it.
“The more people know about Alzheimer’s, the more action we inspire,” as stated on the Alzheimer’s Association’s website.
The association encourages Americans to know the facts; for example, the disease is:
- Fatal and kills more than breast and prostate cancer combined.
- Not part of normal aging.
- Progressive with no cure.
- More than just memory loss—it has specific signs and symptoms.
Ways to get involved include: using social media to spread the word; participating in an Alzheimer’s The Longest Day (June 21) fundraising event; learning about and letting others know about the disease’s early warning signs (call  272-3900 to find out about local education programs) and what to do if you notice these signs; and keeping your brain healthy (also read the fall 2017 Consumer Connection article “Alzheimer’s Disease: Being Active, Healthy Habits Seen as Keys”).
To learn more about Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, visit the Alzheimer’s Association’s website. To find out more about Alzheimer’s disease, you can also talk with your doctor––remember to check your doctor’s license by visiting the Medical Board of California’s website at www.mbc.ca.gov or the Osteopathic Medical Board of California’s website at www.ombc.ca.gov.