Alzheimer’s was first identified in 1906; however, it was not diagnosed as such nor was there any research into its causes for more than 80 years. Research has only been active for the last 25 years. There was very little research done until 1990 when genetic research began. It is feared that over ten million “Baby Boomers” will be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. In the 1900’s life expectancy was only 47 years of age; now it is 80 or above. However, a person’s risk doubles every 5 years over age 65 year and at age 85, chances double of contracting Alzheimer’s. Scientists identified two types of Alzheimer’s, the inherited type which is Early Onset and the second type, which is Late Onset. In 2000 brain imaging became available. This opened the doors to identify the causes and course of the disease. Early Onset Alzheimer’s is caused by a genetic mutation in families. Of those who suffer from Alzheimer’s, less than 5% of the cases are Early Onset and they fall into the 40 to 60 age group. Late Onset, age 65 or older, accounts for the remaining 95%. Positive family history increases ones chances of developing Alzheimer’s.
Of the population suffering from Dementia 71% are suffering from Alzheimer’s and 17% from Vascular disease; 13% comprise other diseases such as Lewy Bodies and Frontal Temporal Lobe Dementia.
Scientists have isolated the cause of the disease to the Beta Amyloid Protein; this is a normal protein contained in the human body. The problem arises when for some reason there is a toxic “pairing” of this protein with other cells and they short circuit the synopses. These groups of cells are called “Tangles”. The synopses begin to die out and things begin to go terribly wrong. The human brain discontinues forming any new memory. The disease slowly begins to rob the person of who they are.
Researchers believe they are on the brink of discovering the exact cause and cure for Alzheimer’s. There are currently 100 different compounds in various stages of clinical trials. It is believed that the secret lies in a vaccine which can be used to stimulate WBC production. These are the cells in your blood which fight infection. It is thought that these WBC’s can attach the Beta Amyloid and make antibodies against the abnormal cells.
It is widely thought that insulin and insulin resistance have a role in the onset of Alzheimer’s. Insulin resistance can be brought on by obesity and lack of activity. Exercise for 30 minutes a day and a healthy diet may decrease the chances of developing Alzheimer’s.
Experiments with Intra-nasal Insulin and immunizations with synthetic Beta Amyloid, developed in 2001, have shown promise in causing the plaques to disappear. Work is also being done with certain anti-inflammatory substances. It has also been shown that having a large network of friends and social interactions, decreasing distress and loneliness, can increase cognitive reserve and somehow protect from developing the disease.
Join us in the fight to find a cure for Alzheimer’s. Go to Alzheimer’s.org A simple test known as the Mini-Cognitive can help to identify the warning signs.
To learn more in detail about Alzheimer’s Disease you may download and read the 2024 Alzheimer’s Report.