Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia in older individuals. Dementia is a medical condition that affects the way the brain works. Alzheimer's disease affects the parts of the brain that control thought, memory, and language. The cause of the disease is unknown and there is no cure or prevention.

An estimated 4 to 6 million persons in the U. S. currently suffer from Alzheimer's disease. It is estimated that this number will rise to more than 14 million people by the year 2050 if an effective treatment or prevention is not found.

You are at higher risk if you:

• are age 65 or older

• have blood relatives with AD

• are of African or Hispanic origin

• have suffered a head injury

• have low educational attainment

• have a genetic risk factor (apoE-4 allele)

Comments  PREADVISE Webmaster, Last modified: November 8, 2005
Copyright © 1999, University of Kentucky Chandler Medical Center
Terms, Conditions & Privacy Statement ; Warning ; Equal Opportunity University