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Alzheimer’s Research Looks at Hotspots Across United States

There was an interesting article in the Wall Street Journal on Alzheimer’s Research authored by Clare Ansberry. 

Did you know that where you live matters in terms of Alzheimer’s disease risk? Scientists and researchers knew that advanced age and changes in the brain increase the chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Now they are examining how where you live plays into developing Alzheimer’s disease. 

Scientists are finding that residents of certain counties and neighborhoods have higher chances of Alzheimer’s disease. Scientists are looking into whether those areas have common risk factors and if those risk factors can be reduced.  

The data shows that Alzheimer’s disease is more prevalent in the gulf states such as Texas and Florida compared to western states such as Colorado and Arizona. This research is in its early stages and questions why one area would be more prone than another. 

Scientists and researchers examined biological factors and did not examine the social determinants of health. Those determinants include income, education, access to health care, and nutritious food. Two studies released earlier this year found higher rates of Alzheimer’s disease in poorer neighborhoods. Another study, looking at just Ohio, found higher prevalence in rural Appalachia compared to non-rural non-Appalachia counties. 

The study found that there was higher prevalence in Blacks and Latinos than in Whites. However, all three groups have higher prevalence in certain counties. The report focused on these three groups because they had the highest prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease with Blacks at 13.8 percent, Latinos at 12.2 percent, and Whites at 10.3 percent. Prevalence amongst Asians and Pacific Islanders, American Indians and Native Alaskans is less than 10 percent for each group. 

The report does not claim that conditions in an area cause Alzheimer’s disease. The question remains whether and how social and economic disparities play a role in health disparities. The new studies can help identify gaps between where treatment and research are provided and where they are needed most. 

The Lancet Commission said that managing twelve risk factors including obesity, smoking and air pollution, could prevent the delay of Alzheimer’s cases worldwide by forty percent.

What do you think of the studies? One thing is for sure- you want to take care of yourself. Remember that, especially if you are busy being a caregiver of a loved one or relative. 

If you have more questions regarding a Guardianship law matter, you may call Ann Marie Giordano Gilden at Ann Marie Giordano Gilden, P.A. at 407-732-7620 and set an initial consultation. You may also visit my website at: AnnMarieGildenLaw.com; and check me out on these other sites: Ann Marie Giordano Gilden on Facebook; Ann Marie (Giordano) Gilden on LinkedIn; and Ann Marie Giordano Gilden on AVVO and Lawyers.com. 

This article is for informational purposes only; and it does not form an attorney client privilege.